Riley County Health Department held a mass vaccination clinic for those aged 12-17 at Pottorf Hall on Thursday.
The vaccination event encouraged those in that age group to get vaccinated with free goodies available at their carnival. Health Department Director Julie Gibbs says it’s important to get as many vaccinated as possible, as demand for the vaccine among older residents has declined. The event was set up to not only be safe, but fun.
“Getting more of our 12 and up population vaccinated is important to increase vaccination rates, but also to protect them against COVID,” says Gibbs. “With all of our sporting and other events in the summer it is very important to get them vaccinated.”
Gibbs says this age can also still be affected by COVID and are also carriers, which can then transmit to other people.
“We have been seeing out percent positive staying under 5%, we want it to stay there. We know that we may see an increase in cases once the students come back in the fall,” says Gibbs.
At least 50% of the county’s population that is eligible to get vaccinated has at least gotten one dose. This age group opened up to around 1,000 more eligible residents. The county is trying to reach a goal of 70% for herd immunity.
As for the activities, those who were vaccinated were treated to free snow cones, massages, and even axe throwing thanks to local business. Gibbs says all of the prizes and food were donated.
The event also partnered with Fort Riley, who had representatives there to discuss the importance of getting vaccinated. Ft Riley Public Health Director Brando Jobity says part this vaccination clinic is part of their health promotion to make sure the community is getting vaccinated against COVID.
“We want to make sure we are supporting the efforts in the county. We are seeing their process to see how that works to make sure we are having synergy with Riley County,” says Jobity.
Gibbs says they will have a second event for those who will be receiving their second shot. However, they do not have another event like this scheduled for first doses in the youth age group. The health department will also hold some more remote clinics and incentives for the older age groups as they are seeing a decline in demand.
430 youth residents were signed up vaccinations for the event, with more able to walk in as well. No official numbers have been released yet.
