With the new school year under way, parents across South Carolina are navigating the back‑to‑school health checklist. August, designated Immunization Awareness Month, gives school districts and health professionals a timely reminder to verify that students are up to date on all recommended vaccinations.
State vaccination rates and the national picture
According to the latest School Vax View data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, South Carolina ranks 23rd among states for kindergarten measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) coverage, with 91.2% of five‑year‑olds vaccinated. The national average stands at 92.5%, leaving the Palmetto State slightly behind.
The state also trails the nation on four other routine childhood vaccines—DTaP, polio, hepatitis B and varicella—each falling just under the national percentages. While the gaps are modest, health officials stress that even small shortfalls can affect community immunity.
Local health provider emphasizes parental responsibility
Richard Hernandez, a nurse practitioner at Lexington Health Primary Care in Batesburg‑Leesville, has seen the process up close. “I’ve recently taken my daughter to all her appointments and made sure she’s current on her shots,” Hernandez said. “When my son moved here from Arizona, I had to verify his vaccine records as well.”
Hernandez advises families to view immunizations as an investment in long‑term health. “We don’t force anyone to do anything,” he explained. “But just as you would seek trusted advice before making a financial investment, you should consult a primary‑care professional about vaccines. Your health is arguably the biggest investment you have.”
Addressing vaccine hesitancy
When asked about who hesitates most, Hernandez noted an unexpected trend: “More often than not, it’s actually the big, burly guys with tattoos who voice concerns,” he said, adding that children sometimes fear the needle but usually find the experience less daunting than their anxiety.
Some parents still prefer natural immunity. Hernandez counters that the risks of disease can be far more severe than the rare side effects of vaccines. “Natural outcomes can be far worse than any vaccine reaction,” he said.
Flu season on the horizon
Looking ahead, Hernandez reminded readers that flu season begins in October. The annual flu shot is recommended for everyone six months and older and must be updated each year because the virus strains change.
“It’s the best way to keep people from getting seriously ill,” he concluded.
What families can do now
- Check school enrollment forms for required immunization documentation.
- Contact local primary‑care providers, such as Lexington Health Primary Care, to verify records.
- Schedule any missing shots before the start of the school year.
- Plan for the upcoming flu vaccination in October.
By staying proactive during Immunization Awareness Month, South Carolina families can help protect their children, themselves, and the broader community.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
