Protecting the Shield

Strategic Health Roadmap for Oconee County, SC

The Current Landscape

Oconee County is currently navigating a shift in community health protection. Our student immunization rate has moved from 96.5% down to 94.2%, placing the community just below the critical 95% threshold required for herd immunity. This decline coincides with a significant rise in religious exemptions, which have more than doubled from 2.3% to 4.9%. With 10 VFC providers serving the county, we must act decisively to reinforce access and education to safeguard our students.

0% ▼ Immunization Rate
Was 96.5% (2021)
0% ▲ Religious Exemptions
Was 2.3% (2021)
0 VFC Providers
County Access Points

Strategic Priorities

1. Returning to 95%

Oconee is currently 0.8% away from the safety standard. Returning to 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 in Walhalla and Seneca to host Q&A sessions on community protection.
3. Supporting the 10 VFC Providers

Our 10 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 Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials