TOPEKA – With the confirmed detection of the Omicron variant in Kansas – along with the continued presence of the Delta variant – local health departments, providers, and community groups are continuing to hold free COVID-19 vaccine and testing clinics across the state. The emergence of the Omicron variant poses a dangerous risk to communities across Kansas, and as we continue to learn more about it, the important steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 remain the same.
Following recommendations of both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC), all Kansans age 5 and older are eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. For those 18 and older, the FDA’s emergency use authorization also covers the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
Recently, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment announced all fully vaccinated Kansans over the age of 12 are also now eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot. Kansans who are at least 12 years old and have met the 5-month time period following the primary vaccination series for the Pfizer vaccine are eligible for its booster dose. Those who are at least 18 years old and have met the 6-month time period following the primary vaccination series for the Moderna vaccine, or who had their Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago, are also now eligible to get the COVID-19 booster dose. Additionally, moderately or severely immunocompromised children ages 5-11 can now receive an additional primary dose of the COVID-19 vaccine administered 28 days after their second shot.
As of Jan. 26, 2022, 61% of Kansans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The events listed below are part of a sustained effort to mobilize Kansans to get vaccinated and/or tested to stop the spread of COVID-19 to protect themselves and their loved ones. Free testing is available to everyone in Kansas, regardless of vaccination status and even if you have been tested before.
At-home COVID-19 rapid tests are now available for free at covidtests.gov or by calling 1-800-232-0233. All households are eligible to order 4 free at-home tests, which will typically ship within 7-12 days.
The Omicron variant is highly infectious and transmittable, accounting for the majority of recent COVID-19 cases in the U.S. Vaccines remain the best tool to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. Additionally, it is recommended that people wear a well-fitting mask in public indoor settings in Kansas, regardless of vaccination status.
There is one mass testing site in Pratt County:
Pratt Community Center, Mass Testing Site
Where: 619 N Main St, Pratt, KS
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.