Allen County teetered on the verge of a grim milestone, nearing 1,000 positive COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began. Meanwhile, a 12th county resident died from complications of the virus.
The county’s case total jumped to 967 as of Friday morning, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. That number represents how many cases have been reported since the pandemic began a year ago.
Currently, Allen County has 87 active cases, as reported by the Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments.
The county’s cases began to climb in early November. On Nov. 3, Allen County reported 32 cases. Two days later, cases had nearly doubled to 61. Since then, the county has consistently reported numbers between 60 and 100, reaching a high of 109 on Dec. 30.
AS CASES continue to climb, the health department is working on plans for a vaccination clinic.
The department has asked for volunteers, who will need to complete a survey about their availability and interests. They’ll be asked to complete a training process when the time comes.
Look for a tentative schedule of vaccination clinics starting Feb. 8 on the SEKMCHD Facebook page and website, sekmchd.com, as well as announcements in the Register and local radio stations.
The SEKMCHD website also offers information and forms to prepare for the vaccinations when they become available. Those who are in Phase 2 (those 65 and older, and essential workers) can download a “Consent to be Vaccinated” form. Complete the form and bring it with you when it’s your turn to receive the vaccine. Hard copy forms will be available at locations to be announced later.
Only those who qualify for Phase 2 should download the forms. When the time comes for later phases, information and forms will become available. That’s because health officials do not yet know what type of vaccine will be available during later phases, and different information may be needed.
