The LWVCA is concerned about declining childhood immunization rates in our area and statewide. Over the past several years, the rates of childhood immunization have declined while the rates of religious (non-medical) exemption have increased. This trend has harmful consequences for our children and other vulnerable populations. Vaccination protects children against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and other diseases which can lead to long-term disease, disabilities, and death. There is extensive misinformation about immunizations. This is partially driving lower vaccination rates. Prevention measures like vaccinations contribute to healthy families.
Healthy citizens are a part of a strong democracy.
Vaccination Rates in Our Area
School vaccination rates in our area are declining. The percentages of students that have the immunizations required for school enrollment in Berkeley (blue), Charleston (orange), and Dorchester (green) counties are shown in Table 1 and Figure 1 below. For comparison, the State percentages (black) and the 95% herd immunity level (red) are also included. Ninety-five percent coverage provides herd immunity, offering protection for the community, and particularly for those individuals who are unable to receive vaccines due to medical reasons. For the 2025-26 school year, the percentages of immunized students in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties are below the 95% herd immunity level.
The rates of religious (non-medical) exemptions are increasing. Non-medical exemptions can be easily obtained by parents. The percentages of students that have religious (non-medical) exemptions and therefore are not required to receive the required immunizations in Berkeley (blue), Charleston (orange), and Dorchester (green) counties are shown in Table 2 and Figure 2 below. For comparison, the State percentages (black) are shown as well. The 2025-26 school year data continue to demonstrate a disturbing increase in non-medical exemptions.
To provide a longer-term perspective, the percentage of South Carolina kindergartners with a non-medical exemption from one or more vaccines is shown in Figure 3 below. The percentage of non-medical exemptions has increased significantly.
Vaccination rates for each of our public and private schools are available at the South Carolina Department of Public Health's website. Home schooled students are not covered by the State’s immunization law. The State’s requirements do not apply to higher education institutions, which have their own policies.
To gain insight into the data, members of the LWVCA Healthcare Committee attempted to contact State and local representatives of education and public health. Contacts with school representatives indicated the public schools have an established system in place to track immunization status and to notify parents of immunization issues. Notably, the Charleston County School District participates in the Vaccination for Children program which permits in-school vaccinations. Some attempted contacts were not successful. Some resulted in referrals to the South Carolina Department of Public Health. Committee members were left with the impression that personnel are cautious about sharing information. The South Carolina measles outbreak has received a great deal of media coverage, which has also provided insight to the committee.
The Healthcare Committee recognizes that any efforts to improve vaccination rates can be successful only in collaboration with community partners. A multi-tiered strategy is key. This includes education and legislation. Advocating for legislation which promotes public health and prevention, including vaccination, is an important priority for LWVCA.
Links cited on this page:
School Vaccination Coverage and Exemption Data by County | South Carolina Department of Public Health
Religious_Exemption_Rates_Last_5_School_Years_as_of_22-23.pdf
Vaccination Coverage and Exemptions among Kindergartners | SchoolVaxView | CDC
