BY NICOLE ASBURY
More Kansans will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, starting as early as next week.
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced Monday the state would move into the next phase of its vaccine distribution plan. It would potentially begin next Monday, March 22.
The next phase combines Phase 3 and Phase 4, Kelly said. It prioritizes people in between ages 16-64 who have medical risks. It also calls for other individuals who qualified under earlier phases to continue to be vaccinated.
“This expedited timeline will allow Kansans to get back to work, back to school and back to a more normal way of life,” Kelly said in a statement. “I urge all Kansans to do their part by getting vaccinated when it is their turn and continuing to follow the public health guidance, so we can return back to normal.”
Under the combined phase approach, those who have medical conditions such as cancer, down syndrome, Type 1 and 2 diabetes, asthma and other conditions that may make them more vulnerable to the coronavirus will be expedited.
Additionally, through the next phase, non-health care workers who cannot work remotely will be prioritized, such as those in the agriculture business, social workers, government workers, and utility workers.
President Joe Biden said last week that his goal is for there to be enough vaccines for every eligible American by May 1, although more time may be required to schedule the vaccinations.
Kelly’s announcement to move into additional phases was made one week ahead of time. More providers will also be available to distribute the vaccine, Kelly said. The state will also partner with the federal government to increase mass vaccination clinics.
People can find their local vaccine provider by using the “find my vaccine” mapping tool at kansasvaccine.gov.
Previously, the state was in Phase 2 of its vaccine distribution plan. That phase prioritized state-designated essential workers, senior citizens and people living in large communal settings.
Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health officials will meet 5 p.m. Monday evening. They will potentially discuss more of the state’s plan.
So far in Douglas County, about 25,600 people have received their first shot of the coronavirus vaccine as of Friday. About 13,000 people have received both doses of the coronavirus vaccine.
Public health provided more than 2,000 people with second doses during a clinic last Friday.
Reach reporter Nicole Asbury at eudoratimes@gmail.com.
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