TOPEKA, Kan. –  Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced last week that Kansas will follow the CDC’s latest guidance regarding individuals who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

“Effective immediately, Kansas will adopt the CDC’s latest guidance that fully-vaccinated Kansans are no longer required to wear masks indoors or outdoors or physically distance, except in circumstances such as those required by businesses, public transportation, or health care facilities,” Kelly said. “Should fully-vaccinated Kansans feel more comfortable wearing a mask, they are welcome to continue doing so.”

Also announced last week was that due to increasing evidence that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for young people, the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine will now be available to those ages 12 and older in Kansas.

“Health experts’ thorough, deliberate review process demonstrates that safety continues to be the number one priority in vaccine approval – and my administration is confident that opening the vaccine to young Kansans is the right move,” Kelly said. “I encourage all eligible Kansans to roll up their sleeves and do their part to ensure we can continue getting back to work, back to school, and back to normal.”

“This is an incredible step forward in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary. “We are now able to protect our younger populations against this deadly disease.”

The announcements follow last week’s expansion of the emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration. The FSA issued the original emergency use authorization Dec. 11, 2020, for individuals ages 16 and older. Kansas providers should now begin opening their vaccine supply to people age 12 or older. Those under 18 need written parental consent for vaccination.

To find a vaccine provider, see www.Vaccines.gov or text your zip code to 438829 (GETVAX).