(RILEY COUNTY, KS - June 28, 2022) COVID-19 vaccine administration for young children will begin Thursday, June 30 at the Riley County Health Department Clinic, located at 2030 Tecumseh Road. All children older than 6 months of age are eligible for vaccination. A parent or legal guardian must be present for any child under 18 years old.
Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are available for this age group. The Health Department does not charge any fees for COVID-19 vaccines.
“The vaccine shipment arrived today and we will be ready to see young patients starting Thursday,” said Local Health Officer and Health Department Director Julie Gibbs. “Vaccines are the best way to provide durable protection from the virus and guard against potential complications from severe disease. If you have questions, talk with your child’s pediatrician. They will know the most about your child’s particular medical needs and will be able to provide appropriate medical advice.”
Local pediatricians will also be administering COVID-19 vaccines to young children.
Walk-ins are welcome at the health department or people can schedule appointments by calling (785) 776-4779 ext. 7675. Wait times may be longer than normal for the first few days.
Riley County Health Department Clinic Hours:
- Mon-Wed: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Thurs: noon – 6 p.m.
- Fri: 8:30 - 11 a.m.
The availability of vaccines for young children will also affect childcare facilities. Close contacts are no longer automatically quarantined if the child is up to date on vaccines. On May 20, the CDC updated the protocol for Isolation and Quarantine in Early Care and Education (ECE) Programs. See the CDC flow chart describing isolation and quarantine for children for more information.
Anyone who is sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, should stay home and stay isolated, whether or not they are vaccinated.
Find information for vaccine dose recommendations from the CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Schedule.
Find more information about the Riley County Health Department and services at www.rileycountyks.gov/health.