photo by: Contributed

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health is located at 200 Maine St.

The 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine is now available at Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health for adults ages 65 and older, the health department announced Wednesday.

The release said people in this age group can make an appointment by calling 785-843-0721. There will also be walk-in clinics for both the flu vaccine – available to people 6 months and older – and the COVID-19 vaccine on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., starting Sept. 26 and continuing each Friday through October.

People must bring their ID and insurance card to their appointment. Insurance coverage for this year’s COVID-19 vaccine may vary.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID-19 vaccines on Aug. 27, but with new eligibility restrictions. The updated shots are now limited to individuals at higher risk of serious illness, with a focus on those age 65 and older. Previously, COVID-19 vaccines were available to everyone age 6 months and older, regardless of health status.

“We expect further guidance on the updated COVID-19 vaccine for those 6 months to 64 years of age and its availability following the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting scheduled for September 18-19, 2025,” the release said.

People can be added to LDCPH’s contact list by completing an online form, and the department will reach out to schedule an appointment once the vaccine becomes available for other age groups.