Protecting the Shield

Strategic Health Roadmap for Georgetown County, SC

The Current Landscape

Georgetown County is experiencing a notable shift in community immunity levels. Since the 2021-2022 school year, our student immunization rate has declined from a robust 97.2% to 95.3%, bringing the community close to the critical 95% threshold. Simultaneously, religious exemptions have nearly tripled, rising from 1.2% to 3.2%. With 9 VFC providers serving the county, we must prioritize community confidence and optimized access to stabilize these rates and protect our schools.

0% ▼ Immunization Rate
Was 97.2% (21-22)
0% ▲ Religious Exemptions
Was 1.2% (21-22)
0 VFC Providers
Local Access Network

Strategic Recommendations

1. Maintaining the 95% Standard

Georgetown is nearing the critical safety threshold. Our priority is ensuring that minor shifts don't turn into a trend that leaves our schools vulnerable.

Stability
Launch a targeted informational campaign for parents focusing on the communal benefit of maintaining high safety margins.
2. Respectful Community Dialogue

The surge in religious exemptions suggests a need to address emerging concerns through transparent, community-led conversations.

Engagement
Partner with faith leaders in Georgetown and Andrews to host Q&A sessions on science-based childhood protection.
3. Supporting VFC Providers

Our 9 VFC providers are the local front line. Ensuring their visibility is key to providing zero-cost protection to every family.

Access
Coordinate with school registration offices to include VFC provider maps and hours in every enrollment packet.
4. Driving Policy Change

Sustainable improvement requires a supportive policy environment that prioritizes student health.

Advocacy
Provide policy analysis on vaccine requirements and encourage advocacy.
Turn data into action—connect with your lawmakers and help shape policies that protect your community.
Contact Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials