Protecting the Community

Strategic Health Roadmap for Lancaster County, SC

The Current Landscape

Lancaster County is currently navigating a shift in community health protection. Our student immunization rate has moved from 94.8% down to 94.4%, placing the community just below the critical 95% threshold required for herd immunity. This trend is paired with a significant rise in religious exemptions, which have more than doubled from 1.4% to 3.4%. With 11 VFC providers serving the county, we must prioritize access and education to reinforce our protective shield.

0% ▼ Immunization Rate

Was 94.8% (2021)

0% ▲ Religious Exemptions

Was 1.4% (2021)

0 VFC Providers

County Access Points

Strategic Priorities

1. Returning to 95%

Lancaster is currently 0.6% away from the safety standard. Restoring the 95% threshold is the most immediate priority for student safety.

Urgency

Work with school administrators to identify and resolve record-keeping gaps before the start of each semester.

2. Respectful Dialogue

The doubling of religious exemptions suggests a shift in perspectives. Addressing concerns with science-based facts is key to reversing this trend.

Engagement

Partner with local medical professionals and faith leaders to host Q&A sessions on the communal benefit of protection.

3. Supporting VFC Providers

Our 11 VFC providers are the county's front line. Ensuring their visibility helps families access cost-free vaccines easily.

Access

Distribute a map of VFC provider locations to all parents during the kindergarten registration process.

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 State Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials