Frequently Asked Questions

COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

How will I be notified when it's time to get the vaccine?

You will be emailed once an appointment time and date are selected for you. This is based on vaccine availability.  Currently, we are receiving approximately 1,200 doses a week.

When will vaccines be available for the general public?

We are currently in Phase 2 of the state vaccine prioritization plan. The focus at this time is individuals 65 and older.  Vaccines are expected to remain in limited quantities for several months and distributed as they are available through the strategic prioritization list.

Why did you say you received vaccines, but I can't have one yet?

Currently, vaccines are coming in small quantities every week and are being administered as quickly as possible.  Again, we are focused on individuals 65+, and there are approximately 8K individuals on the list. While our focus is individuals 65+, there are others categories included in Phase 2.

Do we go through our doctor's office, or is the County Health Department organizing the rollout?

Right now, you cannot go to your doctor's office to receive the vaccine. Some hospital systems are able to offer the vaccine to their patients, but you will need to check with your provider to get on a list. If you signed up on the County list for wanting the vaccine, you will be notified by email when and where to go once you have been given an appointment.

Should I call you or email you to ask to be put on a list for the vaccine?

No. Please do not call or email asking to be added to the list or if you are on the list. This takes time away from the staff working on the vaccine campaign and completing other crucial functions. When you successfully finish the vaccine form online, it provides a popup at the end that confirms the information was received.
The Council on Aging Department is helping those needing help filling out the form.  They can be reached at 913-684-0777.

What is the plan?

We continue to work each week to determine how to distribute the vaccines to best fit our community's needs. Below are the current phases we are working on per guidance from KDHE. We are currently in Phase 2:

 

Phase 1:

  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
  • Health Department Staff
  • Urgent Care Services

Phase 2:

  • Healthcare, first responders, and critical infrastructure
  • K-12 Education (teachers, bus drivers, staff members)
  • Licensed Child Care providers and preschools, RCHD home visitors
  • Public Transportation
  • 65+ individuals

 

I have underlying health conditions.  Can I be vaccinated early?

Yes — but not yet! To help protect our most vulnerable citizens, we are working to include those 65 and older.  Those with high medical risks, regardless of age, will be prioritized in Phase 3 and offered the vaccine before the general public. 

Do I need to make an appointment to get the COVID-19 vaccine?

If you fit into the criteria of Phase 1 & 2, you can go online and fill out the vaccine interest form to be put on the list. Once a vaccine is available, you will be contacted via email and given your appointment time and location.

Where will the shots be administered?

Vaccination sites are being set up. For security purposes, you will be notified through email where your appointment time and location will be.  

Can children be vaccinated for COVID-19?

At this time, the vaccine is authorized for individuals 16 years and older. Clinical trials did not initially include children, and more study is needed to determine effectiveness for children under the age of 16.

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