Kansas

In Kansas, specific immunization guidelines are recommended for pregnant women and infants to protect against various preventable diseases.

Vaccinations for Pregnant Women

• Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Administered during any trimester of each pregnancy to protect both mother and baby from the flu. For optimal immunity, it's best to receive the flu shot during September or October. If in the third trimester, vaccination can occur earlier, such as in July or August.
• Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) Vaccine: Given during each pregnancy, preferably between 27 and 36 weeks gestation, to boost maternal antibodies that are transferred to the infant, providing protection against whooping cough.
• COVID-19 Vaccine: Strongly recommended for pregnant and lactating women by leading health organizations, including the CDC and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Vaccination during pregnancy helps protect both the mother and the baby from COVID-19 complications.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine: The CDC recommends that pregnant women receive the RSV vaccine during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy to protect newborns from severe RSV disease.

Vaccinations for Infants

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) follows the CDC's immunization schedule for children from birth through 6 years old. Key vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis B: The first dose is given at birth, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.
• Rotavirus, DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), Pneumococcal, and Polio: Administered at 2, 4, and 6 months.
• Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV): Administered at 2 and 4 months, with additional doses later.
• Influenza: Annual vaccination starting at 6 months of age.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) and Varicella: Given at 12-15 months.
• Hepatitis A: First dose at 12 months, with a second dose 6 months later.

Where to get vaccinated or vaccination support

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Immunization Program: The KDHE collaborates with local health departments and healthcare providers to reduce or eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases. They oversee programs such as the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children.
Address: 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 210, Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: 877-296-0464
Fax: 785-559-4227

Local Health Departments: County health departments across Kansas offer immunization services. Here are a few examples:

• Johnson County Health Department: Offers immunizations on a walk-in basis.

Phone: 913-826-1261

• Sedgwick County Health Department: Provides immunizations; appointments can be scheduled by calling. Walk-ins are accepted on Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Phone: 316-660-7300

• Shawnee County Health Department: Offers walk-in immunizations; appointments encouraged.

Phone: 785-521-5700

Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program: The VFC program ensures that eligible children receive recommended vaccinations on schedule. Vaccines are provided at no cost through VFC-enrolled healthcare providers.

Pharmacies and Clinics: Many local pharmacies and clinics offer immunization services. For instance, the Travel & Immunization Clinic in Overland Park provides various vaccinations for travelers and non-travelers alike.

Universities: University health centers often provide immunizations for students and staff. They offer a range of immunizations, including COVID-19, Hepatitis A & B, Influenza, MMR, and more.