Kane Co. Health Dept. launches Web page for COVID-19 vaccine appointments; assistance coming for seniors 65+, family caregivers

The Kane County Health Department launched a Web page for COVID-19 vaccine appointments for Priority Group 1B: seniors 65 and older and essential workers as designated by the state of Illinois. The vaccine locations page can be accessed through the Kane County Health Department website at KaneHealth.com.

"The supply of vaccine is still very limited," said Kathy Fosser, interim executive director, Kane County Health Department. "We realize that appointments are difficult to schedule at this time. As the vaccine supply increases, appointment availability will also increase. We appreciate the public's patience as the vaccination drive progresses."

Seniors, age 65 or older, including seniors with existing health conditions, will soon have assistance registering for information on the Kane County Health Department website and make vaccine appointments.

Health department staff are in contact with libraries, senior care providers and municipalities to help seniors and others who need assistance or have limited access to technology.

"We hear from a lot of adult children whose parents live in Kane County, and they say my parents are never going to figure out how to make an appointment," Community Health Director Michael Isaacson said. "We are partnering with local organizations so they can go someplace where there's trusted people who can help them."

Developmentally disabled Kane County residents and their caregivers will move into the top priority category and start receiving COVID-19 vaccines as soon as next week.

The state of Illinois moved caregivers to priority group 1A in new guidance issued last weekend.

Isaacson said he is working with VNA Healthcare, the Association for Individual Development and The Arc of Illinois to work out details.

Home visits for individuals who cannot attend a public vaccination clinic, such as homebound seniors and the adults with medical conditions, are also being worked on with home care partners.

The public is advised to continue to take precautions.

Wear a mask, wash your hands and maintain your social distance. Avoid social gatherings and get tested if you think you have been exposed.

To sign up for email updates on the COVID-19 situation, visit the Kane County Health Department website at KaneHealth.com or call the health department at (630) 208-3801.