Cherokee County School District Immunization Events: Protect Your Child with Free Vaccinations
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The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center is partnering with Cherokee County School District to offer free immunizations through their Community Health Van. This initiative focuses on providing HPV, Tdap, and Meningitis vaccines to middle school students (Grades 6-8) who are eligible under the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program—meaning those insured by Medicaid or who are uninsured.
These vaccinations are crucial for protecting students against serious diseases, including cancers caused by HPV and preventable illnesses like tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and meningitis. Parental consent is required for all vaccinations, and walk-ins are welcome as long as a parent or guardian provides consent on site.
Key Event Details
- September 30, 2025
Gaffney Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: 805 East Frederick St., Gaffney, SC 29340
- October 1, 2025
Ewing Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: 171 E. Jr. High Rd., Gaffney, SC 29340
Blacksburg Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: 101 London St., Blacksburg, SC 29702
Important Vaccination Information
- HPV Vaccine: FDA-approved, safe, and effective. Recommended for both boys and girls starting as early as age 9, with the optimal age being 11-12. Only 2 doses are needed if started before age 15. It provides long-lasting protection against 6 types of cancer.
- Tdap Vaccine: Required for 7th-12th graders—one dose on or after the 10th birthday to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
- Meningitis Vaccine: Helps prevent bacterial meningitis, a serious infection that can affect teens.
Why Participate?
Vaccinations are a simple way to safeguard your child's health and prevent future health issues. The Community Health Van makes it convenient by bringing services directly to schools. For more details on HPV and cancer prevention, visit [hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/outreach/hpv](https://hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/outreach/hpv) or scan the QR code on the flyer.
If you have questions or need consent forms, contact your school's administration or the Hollings Cancer Center. Let's work together to keep our students healthy and protected!