The latest news on COVID-19
At Blue KC, we’re actively monitoring COVID-19 developments and what they mean for our members, customers, and community. As the pandemic continues to impact our lives this winter, we’re committed to keeping you informed and up to date.
A look at COVID-19 positivity rates
What’s the prevalence of COVID-19 across the country and in our community? Here’s what we know about how many people have tested positive. The CDC recommends that we push the positivity rate to 3% or less. As you’ll see, we have a way to go before we can feel safe.
US: 8.4% positivity
Missouri: 11% positivity
Kansas: 23% positivity
New cases in KS and MO
Where are we seeing the most new cases across the region? Currently, all eyes are on Kansas, where higher rates of new incidences are concentrated. One out of every 4 tests in Kansas is coming back positive, which means COVID-19 is widespread in the community and there’s not enough testing to catch asymptomatic spread.
Missouri has fewer new cases every day than the national average, but it’s still higher than what is preferred.
Vaccines are here
There are currently two FDA-approved vaccines for COVID-19. More are in the pipeline.
Vaccination is the most effective way we have to build protection against COVID-19. According to the CDC, COVID vaccines are safe and effective, “COVID-19 vaccines were evaluated in tens of thousands of participants in clinical trials. The vaccines met FDA’s rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality needed to support emergency use authorization (EUA).”
Vaccine rollout will occur in phases beginning with high-risk workers and individuals. Once federal and state officials work out the distribution details, you’ll be able to get vaccinated for FREE at:
- Pharmacies
- Health clinics
- Local health departments
- Hospitals
- Mass vaccination events at various locations
- Mobile clinics
Read our recent Blueprint blog: “What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine.”
Vaccine availability
When and where will you be able to be vaccinated? Contact your state health department.
Kansas Department of Health and Environment https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services https://covidvaccine.mo.gov
Blue KC is committed to keeping you informed about all COVID-19 vaccine developments. Be sure to check out our Vaccine FAQs. As soon as new information becomes available, we update the site.
Protect yourself until you get a vaccine
As we wait for vaccines to roll out to the general public, here’s how you can do your part to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
- Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose
- Social distance
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid crowds
Your hub for all things COVID
Things are moving quickly with the virus and arrival of the new vaccines. And yes, information changes daily. Stay up to date at Blue KC’s website: https://www.bluekc.com/consumer/covid-19.html.