The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment encourages individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised to receive a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. JCDHE will begin administering additional COVID19 vaccine doses to qualifying residents beginning Tuesday, Aug. 17, at its vaccine clinics. This follows the Aug. 13 news that the federal Food and Drug Administration amended the emergency use authorizations for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) to include a third-dose for moderately to severely immunocompromised people, including those receiving cancer treatment among others. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Aug. 13 also announced Kansas providers could now administer this additional dose of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Additional doses of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine have not been authorized.

“Although these vaccines are highly effective, those who are immunocompromised due to health conditions or medical treatment may need this extra layer of protection,” said Dr. Sanmi Areola, JCDHE director. “We support federal and state guidance and recommend residents speak with their doctors about whether this third dose is right for them.”

JCDHE will not request proof of individuals’ health conditions. Those who are not immunocompromised should not seek an additional dose at this time. Those who receive a third dose will be asked to complete an attestation form acknowledging they qualify under CDC criteria. For those unable to complete the form online, paper copies will be available at JCDHE walk-in vaccination clinics. Third-dose vaccines are also available at physicians’ offices and pharmacies.

Learn more about JCDHE vaccine clinics, including locations and walk-in availability.