As the Delta variant of COVID-19 increases in Kansas, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is partnering with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Kansas Turnpike Authority to offer free COVID-19 testing and vaccination clinics at three Kansas Turnpike service areas, according to a news release Wednesday from KDHE.

The clinics are available to both Kansans and out-of-state travelers.

“Receiving the vaccine continues to be the best way to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” said Dr. Lee Norman, secretary of KDHE, in the release. “Through this partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Kansas Turnpike Authority, the vaccine will be more accessible to travelers allowing for further protection for all Kansans.”

The emergence of the Delta variant poses a dangerous risk to communities across Kansas, the release said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Delta variant is twice as infectious as the B.1.1.7 variant, previously the dominant strain. The new variant appears to be spreading most quickly in communities that have the lowest vaccination rates.

Location and times for the turnpike clinics include:

Lawrence Service Area (Kansas Turnpike Mile Post 209)

Thursday, Aug. 12, 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 13, 7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.

Topeka Service Area (Kansas Turnpike Mile Post 188)

Thursday, Aug. 12, 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 13, 7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.

Matfield Green Service Area (Kansas Turnpike Mile Post 97, Cassoday)

Thursday, Aug. 12, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 13, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.