Many people are hoping that once the COVID-19 pandemic is done, perhaps later this summer, we don’t have to worry about the virus any more.
The reality is likely different. In fact, Lyon County Public Health Emergency preparedness Director Jennifer Millbern says COVID-19 may join other illnesses, notably flu, with annual vaccination plans.
Millbern says vaccines could be needed for the next several years, depending on how the virus develops.
With other viruses, Millbern says they mutate until there is some sort of co-existence between human and virus. She cited flu and rhinovirus — the common cold, a longstanding version of coronavirus — as examples.
As that discussion continues locally, statewide and nationally, Millbern says preparations continue locally for more vaccines to come in. Part of that activity involves a new so-called Pfizer freezer through a partnership with Emporia State University.
Millbern reminds people the current waitlist at Lyon County Public Health is only for Phase 2 seniors only. Other people eligible through Phase 2 vaccinations, including high-contact critical workers and people in congregate settings, and people in upcoming phases can sign up for vaccine notifications by going online to www.publichealth.lyoncounty.org.
KVOE will keep updated as the COVID-19 response effort continues. The next COVID-19 Vaccination Briefing is at 8:20 am Monday on KVOE and KVOE.com. Millbern will join KVOE’s Newsmaker segment at 7:15 am Thursday.
