RENO COUNTY — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Health Advisory because of increasing emergency department visits for children due to respiratory viruses including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza in Kansas and nationally.
The Reno County Health Department wants to remind people it is not too late to get vaccinated.
Vaccines for flu and COVID-19 can be administered at the same time. The CDC recommends vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 to all eligible people aged six months and older who are not up to date.
There are other measures patients can take to prevent respiratory viruses.
• Stay home if they are sick and stay away from others who appear ill.
• Practice good cough etiquette (turn head away from others, cough into your arm or a tissue, then discard the tissue)!
• Keep your hands clean! – wash your hands frequently (20 seconds with soap and water) especially after coughing or touching high touch services.
• Clean high touch surfaces often, like doorknobs, car handles, phones and keys.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Mask up if levels of respiratory illness are high – especially if your child has a chronic illness.
• Seek medical care EARLY to get the most benefit from antiviral treatment options for influenza and COVID-19.
• Don’t take antibiotics that are left over or are given by a friend or family member. These will not help with viral infections and may cause side effects.
The Reno County Health Department is administering flu and COVID-19 vaccines during their normal operating hours. Walk-ins are accepted for ages 12 and over, but appointments are required for children 11 years or younger. To set an appointment, call 620-694-2900.