Manhattan —Like everyone else, the pandemic is new for Riley County. Health officials said that they started the Phase 2 process last week by vaccinating everyone 65 and older on a first-come-first-served basis, using the order in which they registered. After careful consideration, they have decided it would be better for our most vulnerable population, if they prioritize those who have severe medical conditions.
For the next rounds of vaccines, people 65 and older with severe medical conditions (*please see list below) will be the first priority. People in that age group who do not have qualifying medical conditions will get their vaccines according to the order in which they signed up.
Please note at no point in time have officials randomly chosen who will be vaccinated.
To date, more than 10,000 people have registered to receive the vaccine. Those who have not are encouraged to do so. You can sign up to receive the coronavirus vaccine at www.RileyCountyKS.gov/VaccineRequest or call Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.: (785) 565-6560. Each individual needs to register. Please be patient as we are experiencing a high volume of requests.
Phase 1 includes:
- Healthcare workers
- Long Term Care Facilities
- Emergency Medical Services
Phase 2 includes:
- Adults 65 and Older
- First Responders
- K-12 Teachers and Staff
- Licensed Child Care, Preschools, After School Care, Child Care Licensing Staff
- Emergency Shelter and Domestic Violence Homes, Adult Group Care Homes, Residential Treatment Centers, Adult, and Child Protective Services
By Alice Massimi