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1. What types of careers does the Clay County Public Health Center (CCPHC) offer?

We offer a variety of career options, from health care to administration. Common areas in which we employ are: community development, environmental health, health policy and planning, office support, human resources, quality improvement, IT, nutrition, nursing, dental, epidemiology, emergency planning and more.

2. Do I have to submit a completed application if I'm submitting a resume?

Yes, a completed CCPHC application is required to be considered for an open position. Resumes will not be substituted for a completed application.

3. Does there have to be an open position for me to apply?

Yes, applications are only accepted for current postings.

4. Am I required to submit a separate application for each job I want to apply for?

Yes, a separate application must be submitted for each open position.

5. What next steps should I take once my application is submitted?

You will be contacted by the applicable hiring supervisor for next steps.

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1. Are the available COVID-19 vaccines safe and effective?

Yes, the vaccines were tested on tens of thousands of people and have passed safety requirements in Phase I, Phase II and Phase III trials. Over 179 million people have gotten vaccinated in the United States so far.

For more safety information, visit the trustworthy sources below for in-depth and accurate information about vaccine safety and effectiveness.

• COVID Vaccine Facts (Missouri Dept. of Health & Senior Services)
• Ensuring the Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines in the United States (CDC)
• Ensuring COVID-19 Vaccines Work (CDC)
• COVID-19 Vaccines (FDA)
• Safety of Vaccines for Kids (MO DHSS)

2. Is it safe to get my child vaccinated?

Yes. Scientists and medical experts have worked to ensure the vaccine is safe for children and adolescents ages 6 months to 17 years old. Before being authorized for children, these experts completed their review of safety and effectiveness data from clinical trials involving thousands of children. What’s more, 22 million children and adolescents, ages 5-17 have already received the COVID-19 vaccine. As of June 18, 2022, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are also authorized for children as young as 6 months.

Data from trials will continue to be collected for two years after each vaccine is first administered to ensure that they are safe for the long term. As with all vaccines, there will be ongoing monitoring among people who are vaccinated.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children and teens. 

3. Why did it take so long for the FDA to make a decision about vaccines for children under 5?

All the COVID-19 vaccines have undergone a rigorous review process before being authorized for a given age group. The FDA’s evaluation of vaccines for young kids has been part of this overall thorough review process. Clinical trials were not started in children until after the trials in adults showed safety and efficacy of the vaccines. 

Additionally, part of what made the review process longer for young kids is that experts were determining what dosage and series would be safe and effective for children under five. After reviewing initial data on the effectiveness of the vaccine in young kids, the FDA waited to receive additional findings from clinical trials to ensure that its recommendation was based on a substantial amount of clinical data.  

4. Is it safe to get vaccinated if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Yes. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all people 6 months and older, including people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future.

Evidence about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy has been growing. These data suggest that the benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any known or potential risks of vaccination during pregnancy.

Please visit CDC's COVID-19 Vaccines While Pregnant or Breastfeeding for updated information to help you make your decision. You can also hear from medical professionals here.

5. How was the vaccine developed so quickly?

• In developing a vaccine for COVID-19, researchers had to work quickly, but not at the risk of anyone’s safety. Researchers did not cut any corners or skip any steps. Safety and effectiveness were the top priorities. 
• The accelerated timeline for developing COVID-19 vaccines was possible for several reasons: 
  • Researchers were able to use years of previous research in other viruses and vaccines to help inform a vaccine development process for COVID-19. 
  • Everyone involved dedicated all their resources and time to developing a COVID-19 vaccine. This includes research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations. 
  • Many governments around the world, including the U.S. government, and private funders invested in the vaccine, which allowed pharmaceutical companies to focus on research and clinical trials instead of fundraising, one of the most time-consuming parts of vaccine development. 
  • Finally, because of the financial support, researchers were able to conduct different parts of the development process on parallel tracks instead of one after another. Usually, each phase in a clinical trial ends before the next phase begins, with several months to a year or more in between each phase. Vaccine developers use this time to plan and raise money. Because of the emergency presented by the pandemic, researchers developed the vaccines on parallel tracks, meaning that they completed the necessary steps at the same time or with some overlap. No steps were skipped in the process of developing the COVID-19 vaccines.

6. What ingredients are used in the vaccines?

The ingredients used in the mRNA vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna are simple. They contain mRNA, as well as lipids to ensure safe delivery of the mRNA that will initiate an immune response.

Ingredients of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine include: recombinant, replication-incompetent adenovirus type 26 expressing the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, citric acid monohydrate, trisodium citrate dihydrate, ethanol, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HBCD), polysorbate-80, sodium chloride.

Although FDA approved adjuvants (aluminum salts) and preservatives (ethlymercury) have a history of safe use in vaccines, they were not used by Pfizer, Moderna or Janssen.

• Tromethamine in the vaccine for children ages 6 months - 11 years: Tromethamine (Tris) buffer replaced phosphate buffered saline (pbs) in both the vaccine authorized for children 6 months - 11 years and an additional formulation authorized for those 12 and older. The Tris buffer in the vaccine for those 6 months - 11 years, which is a very small amount at 0.15 mg, is an inactive ingredient and serves as a stabilizer used to aide in a simpler and longer storage period. This switch will allow for the Pfizer vaccine to be stored at normal refrigeration temperatures for up to 10 weeks, which may increase the vaccine’s availability to underserved areas. Contrary to claims on social media, it is not being used to reduce blood acid levels in patients. Tromethamine has been used safely as an ingredient in FDA approved vaccines, like Ebola Zaire, smallpox and dengue fever, as well as the FDA approved Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

Learn more

7. What are the possible side effects of a COVID-19 vaccine?

Among vaccine recipients during the Pfizer clinical trials, 8.8% reported experiencing any reaction they considered to interfere with daily activity; the most common symptoms were fatigue (4.2%), headache (2.4%), muscle pain (1.8%), chills (1.7%), and injection site pain (1.4%). Of note, more people experienced these side effects after the second dose than after the first dose.

Among vaccine recipients during the Moderna clinical trials, 9.1% reported local injection site reaction and 16.5% reported side effects with the most common being including fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches and pains.

Additionally, no specific safety concerns were identified for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in subgroup analyses by age, race, ethnicity, underlying medical conditions, or previous SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Learn more

8. Who is NOT recommended for each vaccine?

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are authorized for those age 6 months and older. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is authorized for those 18 and older.

The vaccines are not recommended for individuals who have experienced a serious reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to a prior dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or to any of its components. For information on vaccine components, refer to the manufacturers’ package inserts from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.

9. Can I get COVID-19 from the vaccine?

No. None of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines or COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the United States contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. This means that a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.

10. Is Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine safe?

Yes. Although use of the J&J vaccine was temporarily paused in April 2021, following a thorough safety review, U.S health officials determined that the recommended pause should be lifted and use of the vaccine should resume.

The two agencies have determined the following:

• Use of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine should be resumed in the United States.
• The FDA and CDC have confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19.
• The FDA has determined that the available data show that the vaccine’s known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older.
• At this time, the available data suggest that the chance of TTS occurring is very low, but the FDA and CDC will remain vigilant in continuing to investigate this risk.
• Health care providers administering the vaccine and vaccine recipients or caregivers should review the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers) and Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers, which have been revised to include information about the risk of this syndrome, which has occurred in a very small number of people who have received the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine.

CDC’s independent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices met to discuss the latest data on TTS, hearing from the vaccine manufacturer Janssen and the COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Technical (VaST) Subgroup, as well as a risk benefit analysis. ACIP is committed to be vigilant and responsive to additional information that could impact the risk benefit analysis of any of these vaccines. Vaccine safety monitoring will continue and any new information about TTS will be brought to ACIP as needed.

Update December 16, 2021

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services updated the standing orders for the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine to indicate that either authorized mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna) are preferred over the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 in individuals ages 18 years and older due to the risk of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia or Guillain-Barre (GBS) following vaccination. Clients medically unable to receive the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or would otherwise not be vaccinated against COVID-19 may request the Janssen vaccine, and a CCPHC nurse may determine if the client is eligible for the vaccine.

11. Does the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine require special precautions?

Yes, those who have or have a history of thrombocytopenia, who have or have a history of a low platelet count, prior surgery (cardiac, orthopedic, trauma), cardiovascular disease, oral contraceptive use or hereditary thrombophilia. 

If you experience any of the following symptoms seek medical attention right away: Shortness of breath, chest pain, leg pain or swelling, backache, persistent abdominal pain, severe and persistent headaches, visual changes or easy bruising or tiny blood spots under the skin beyond the site of the injection.

Update December 16, 2021

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services updated the standing orders for the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine to indicate that either authorized mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna) are preferred over the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 in individuals ages 18 years and older due to the risk of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia or Guillain-Barre (GBS) following vaccination. Clients medically unable to receive the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or who would otherwise not be vaccinated against COVID-19 may request the Janssen vaccine, and a CCPHC nurse may determine if the client is eligible for the vaccine.

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1. When will the emergency order expire?

In response to updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and improvements in local case, hospitalization and vaccination rates, the Clay County Public Health Emergency Order expired Friday, May 14, 2021.

2. Are there mask requirements in Clay County?

On May 14, 2021, the Clay County Public Health Emergency Order was allowed to expire. Masks are no longer be required indoors or outdoors unless a business, organization, or event chooses to continue to require them.

However, in accordance with CDC guidance, anyone who is not fully vaccinated should continue to take precautions such as wearing a well-fitted mask in public, staying six feet or more from those they don't live with and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.

3. What are things businesses can do to keep employees and customers safe?

• Strongly encourage COVID vaccination.
• Allow employees to work from home to the maximum extent feasible.
• Require all employees and customers to wear masks or other face coverings.
• Allow employees to maintain at least six feet of distance from each other and customers as much as feasible.
• Implement sick leave policies which allow any employee who shows any signs of COVID-19 infection (fever, cough, shortness of breath) to remain home until at least 3 days after symptoms have gone.
• Send home any employee who exhibits COVID-19 symptoms while at work.
• Provide easily-accessible hand sanitizer for employees and customers. 
• Encourage employees to regularly wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.
• Regularly disinfect commonly used surfaces such as door handles, counters, and payment terminals.
• Limit cash exchanges.

The Mid-America Regional Council has produced a guide to help businesses return to work safely. Additional information on protecting businesses and employees is available on the CDC website.

4. What are additional things restaurants, taverns, and bars can do to promote safety?

• Encourage or require all patrons to be seated while eating and/or drinking. Six-foot distancing is recommended to be maintained between different parties, as measured from back of chair to back of chair. This includes booths, which may necessitate closing off every other booth space in certain layouts.
• Encourage or require customers and employees to wear masks while not actively engaged in consuming food or beverages. This includes waiting to be seated, entering/exiting the establishment, and using restrooms or other facilities in the restaurant.
• Patrons who are exhibiting symptoms should not be allowed to dine.
• Employees who are exhibiting symptoms should not be allowed to work.
• Establishments must notify Clay County Public Health Center if any employee or customer is known to have tested positive for COVID-19.
• Require employees to wear protective face coverings at all times.
• Clean and sanitize all dining surfaces, including tables, chairs and highchairs between customers.
• Cleaning and sanitizing of frequently touched surfaces like doors, door handles, service counters, restrooms and waiting areas must be completed at a minimum of every 90 minutes.
• Restaurants must adhere to all requirements set forth in the Clay County Food Code, including handwashing frequency, employee health guidelines and proper sanitization of surfaces.
• Restaurants are encouraged to emphasize carry-out and delivery services, to minimize contact among people.
• Single-service menus that can be thrown away after one use are encouraged, but if cost-prohibitive, all menus are to be cleaned and sanitized between every customer.

5. What is CCPHC currently recommending to schools and early childcare?

Please visit our School Guidance page for the latest updates and recommendations from public health.

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1. What is health?

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

2. What is public health?

Public health is the science and art of preventing disease and injuries, prolonging life and promoting physical and mental health and efficiency through organized community efforts. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

3. What is a public health emergency?

A public health emergency is a situation whose health consequences have the potential to overwhelm routine community capabilities to address them. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

4. What are some emergency preparedness initiatives in Clay County?

The City Readiness Initiative (CRI): The CRI is a program designed for major U.S. cities and metropolitan areas such as Kansas City to effectively and efficiently respond to a large scale bioterrorist event by dispensing prophylaxis to the entire identified populations within 48 hours of the decision to do so.

The Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) Program: The PHEP program addresses the strategic national stockpile (SNS) plan to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies in all counties.

Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

5. What are the specific risks for the citizens in Clay County?

Clay County populations are vulnerable to pandemics, outbreaks of novel communicable diseases, bioterrorist attacks, chemical incidents and natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, severe weather and earthquakes. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

6. What is an open Point of Dispensing (POD) site?

An open POD site is a clinic setup and run by the Clay County Public Health Center to provide life-saving medications to the general population in the event of a public health emergency. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

7. What is a closed POD site?

A closed POD is a private location where SNS medications are dispensed free of charge to the organization's employees and/or family members and others for which the organization is responsible for. A closed POD is not intended to serve SNS medical countermeasures to the general public. Please call 816-595-4200 for more information.

8. Does the Clay County Public Health Center recruit volunteers for emergency preparedness and response?

Yes. The Health Center maintains a database of registered medical and non-medical volunteers who wish to volunteer their services in the event of a public health emergency. To register, visit our volunteer page.

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1. How do I sign up for a food handler or manager class?

This information is available on our food page.

2. What recommendations or resources are available for mold?

The Clay County Public Health Center does not have a mold ordinance. It is recommended that you visit the EPA or the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services for

mold assistance.

3. How do I view restaurant inspection results?

View inspection 

results online.

4. Can you provide recommendations on septic installers and soil evaluators?

The Missouri Department of Health and Human Services keeps a list of licensed installers and soil evaluators.

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1. Am I eligible to get a COVID vaccine right now?

Anyone 6 months or older can receive a COVID vaccine at this time.

(Learn more about COVID vaccines for children and teens.)

2. Where can I get a vaccine? Who is administering the COVID-19 vaccines?

Many different kinds of organizations have qualified to be vaccinators in Missouri. These include hospitals, health departments, pharmacies, large employers and more. You may also wish to check with your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or employer to see if they plan to offer the vaccine at any point.

You can visit our Where to Get Vaccinated page for a list of local options. For a list of pediatric providers, click here.

3. Does Clay County Public Health Center offer COVID vaccines?

Yes, we offer vaccination for all ages (6 months+). Learn what COVID vaccines are currently offered at CCPHC and how to make an appointment.

Clay County Public Health Center has been providing the COVID-19 vaccine since Jan. 11, 2021. CCPHC was also part of Operation Safe, a community effort to vaccinate Missourians at a clinic at Cerner's North Kansas City campus.

4. What is the Novavax vaccine and how can I get it?

The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is a protein-based vaccine (does not include mRNA). Novavax is manufactured more like “traditional” vaccines, like flu vaccines. Learn more about the Novavax vaccine.

Clay County Public Health Center offers Novavax and Novavax boosters on Thursdays.

5. Can I get the J&J vaccine at Clay County Public Health Center?

Update 1/24/2023

The Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine is not currently offered at Clay County Public Health Center. After expiration of our current stock, it was decided to no longer carry J&J due to low demand and additional safety considerations. Click here to find other places that may offer the J&J vaccine.

6. Can I get a bivalent booster at Clay County Public Health Center?

Yes. Anyone age 12 and older can receive this new booster if they've completed their primary series and it's been at least 2 months since their last COVID shot (any type). We are only offering the Pfizer bivalent vaccine at CCPHC. Learn more.

The original (monovalent) versions of the Pfizer and Moderna are only available for people getting their primary series.

7. How much does it cost to get vaccinated?

Getting a COVID vaccine is FREE for everyone.

No person can be billed for the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine providers may charge an administration fee to insurance, Medicaid or Medicare, if the patient has any of those. If the patient does not have any of those, they are still able to get vaccinated for free.

8. I have more questions about COVID vaccines. Where can I find more info?

Check out these pages from other reliable health organizations:

• Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
• FDA
• CDC
• Liberty Hospital
• Greater Than COVID video series
• North Kansas City Hospital & Meritas Health
• The University of Kansas Health Center
• Truman Medical Center (En Español)
• Kansas City, Missouri Health Department
  
  
  

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1. Who is eligible?

Children ages 11-14 and 16-18 years old. They must attend the school at which the clinic is being held.

2. Who administers the vaccines?

Registered nurses on staff with Clay County Public Health Center are trained and qualified to safely vaccinate students.

3. Does a parent or guardian need to accompany the student?

No. For clinics during the regular school year, parents/guardians do not need to be present. The student will be briefly called out of class to attend the clinic, under the supervision of their school nursing staff.

4. How much does it cost?

This program is free to the school, students, and families. If a student is enrolled in Medicaid or has private insurance, insurance will be billed. Students without insurance (or insurance that doesn’t pay for vaccines) can also receive vaccines for free.

This program is a great opportunity to avoid the administration fees that apply when getting vaccinated at the CCPHC building!

5. What vaccines are offered?

Required and recommended vaccines for your student’s age group.

• Tdap (Adacel) vaccine is required for students entering 8th grade
• One Meningococcal/ACWY (Menactra) vaccine is required for students entering 8th grade.
• Two Meningococcal/ACWY (Menactra) vaccines are required for students entering 12th grade if first one given before age 15.
• Other vaccines offered: Flu, HPV (Gardasil 9), Men B (Bexsero or Trumenba-16-18 yr olds only)

6. Will COVID-19 vaccines be offered?

Not at this time. To get any dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, please reference our list of local options.

COVID vaccines are now available for anyone 6 months and older. Learn more.

7. Is participation optional?

Yes. Your child will not receive any vaccinations at school until the registration and consent form is completed and submitted. 

Only a custodial parent may provide consent. If another guardian is providing consent, guardian paperwork is required. Guardianship paperwork may be emailed to imms@clayhealth.com or faxed to 816-595-4390.

8. Where can I get more information or answers to questions?

If you have questions about the school vaccination program, please contact your school nurse or the Clay County Public Health Center Immunizations program staff at 816-595-4355.

For questions about vaccines (safety, effectiveness, etc.), please speak with your child's doctor. You can also find reliable information from the sources listed on our Vaccine Safety page.

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1. ¿Cuándo ocurre la despensa móvil?

Los eventos de despensa móvil se llevan a cabo el primer miércoles de cada mes. (En algunas ocasiones, el mal tiempo puede obligarnos a cancelar un evento; consulte nuestras redes sociales para mantenerse al tanto).

La distribución usualmente inicia a las 3 pm y termina cuando se agotan las existencias o a las 4:30 pm.

2. ¿Dónde se lleva a cabo la despensa móvil?

Este evento se lleva a cabo afuera del Centro de Salud Pública del Condado de Clay, ubicado en 800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068.

3. ¿Cómo puedo obtener alimentos en este evento?

Nuestra despensa móvil es un evento con autorrápido. Esto significa que no es necesario bajarse de su automóvil. 

Cuando llegue, sencillamente póngase en fila y un miembro de nuestro personal le entregará un formulario corto (hay disponible una versión en español) para que la llene mientras espera. Cuando llega al primer lugar en la fila, los voluntarios tomarán su formulario lleno y cargarán los alimentos en su auto.

4. ¿Quiénes pueden obtener alimentos de la despensa móvil?

La despensa móvil está destinada para familias con necesidad de ayuda alimentaria. Sin embargo, cualquier persona puede obtener alimentos en nuestros eventos. No es necesario presentar pruebas de tener necesidad. También puede recoger alimentos para darlos a otras personas.

No es necesario que resida en el Condado de Clay. No es necesario ser ciudadano de los Estados Unidos.

5. ¿Qué necesito traer o hacer para obtener alimentos?

No es necesario traer ninguna documentación ni hacer algo en particular para recibir alimentos. No le pediremos pruebas de necesidad, prueba de ciudadanía ni identificación.

Le pediremos a una persona de cada vehículo que llene un formulario por cada familia que recibirá alimentos. Este es un cuestionario breve de media página que pregunta cosas tales como código postal, cuántas personas residen en su hogar y cómo se enteró del evento. El formulario se encuentra disponible en español.

6. ¿Qué clase de artículos se obtienen en la despensa móvil?

Usualmente recibimos cajas con frutas y vegetales de Harvesters para distribuirlas. Estas cajas pueden incluir manzanas, papas, cebollas, verduras, maíz, zanahorias y mucho más. ¡Son diferentes todos los meses!

7. ¿Puedo obtener pañales en este evento?

Happy Bottoms no está programado para asistir a ninguno de nuestros eventos en este momento. Si su familia actualmente lo necesita, siempre puede comunicarse con Happy Bottoms para formar parte de su programa.

8. ¿Puedo pedir que me entreguen alimentos a domicilio o recogerlos en otro momento?

Desafortunadamente, no podemos hacer entrega de alimentos ni permitir que se recojan fuera de las horas de funcionamiento de la despensa móvil. Usualmente se distribuyen todos los alimentos en cada evento y/o es necesario mantener los alimentos en frío, lo cual no puede hacerse en nuestras instalaciones.

9. ¿Cómo puedo obtener alimentos si no puedo venir a este evento?

Comprendemos que nuestro evento no siempre ocurre en un horario conveniente para todos. Existen muchas otras oportunidades en el área para obtener alimentos gratuitos si tiene necesidad. Por favor consulte la página Get Food Assistance de Harvesters para obtener información útil.

10. ¿Puedo servir como voluntario(a) en este evento?

Sí. ¡Muchas gracias por su interés! Por favor llene el formulario de voluntarios interesados. 

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1. When is the food pantry?

The mobile food pantry events occur the first Wednesday of every month. (Occasionally, severe weather may cause us to cancel an event. In this case, please check our social media channels for updates.)

Distribution usually starts at 3pm and ends when we run out of food or 4:30 pm. Although a long line can form before each event, we still encourage you to come even if you can't arrive until after distribution starts.

2. Where does the food pantry take place?

This event takes place outside Clay County Public Health Center, located at 800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068. 

3. Will I need to park and come inside for this event?

No. Since 2020, our mobile food pantry has been a drive through event. This means that there is no need to leave your car.

When you arrive, simply get in line and our staff will come around and give you the short questionnaire to fill out while you wait. When you get to the front of the line, volunteers will take your piece of paper and load your food in your car.

4. Who is able to get food from the food pantry?

While the purpose of the event is to provide fresh and healthy foods to those in our community who might otherwise not be able to afford all the nutritious food their family needs that week, anyone is welcome to get food at our events.  No proof of need is required. You can also pick up food for other people.

You do not have to live in Clay County.

5. What do I need to bring/do to get food?

You do not need to bring any paperwork or anything else to receive food.

We will ask one person from each car to fill out 1 form for each family receiving food. This is a short, half-page questionnaire that asks things like zip code, how many people are in your household and how you heard about the event. 

6. What items can I get at the food pantry?

Usually we receive boxes of fruits and vegetables from Harvesters to distribute. This could include apples, potatoes, onions, greens, corn, carrots and lots more. Some months could even include a dairy product or juice. Each month is different! Each family typically receives about 5 different items.

If you'd like to know what items will be available before you arrive, please follow the CCPHC Facebook page. We cannot always guarantee this information will be posted. But if the info is posted, it is not posted until we have received the delivery around 1:30 on the day of the event. Thanks for your patience!

7. Can I get diapers at this event?

Happy Bottoms is not scheduled to distribute diapers at any of our upcoming events. If your family is in need, you can always contact Happy Bottoms to become part of their program. 

There are options available for WIC families to pick up diapers - please talk to staff during your next appointment for more information.

8. Are dental services still available at this event?

Clay County Public Health Center's dental team occasionally offers limited dental services at food pantry events. These include free dental screenings & referrals for all ages and fluoride varnish applications and goody bags for kids up to 18. 

The team typically offers these services at food panty events in good/warm weather. To guarantee if these services will be offered at an upcoming event, check our social media posts and/or message CCPHC through social media to ask.

9. Can someone else pick up food for me?

Yes! We just ask that one form per family is filled out. 

Please make sure that whoever picks up for you knows:

• Your zip code
• The number of people in your household
• If your familiy is part of any programs like SNAP, WIC or the school lunch program

10. Can I have food delivered to me or pick up at another time?

Unfortunately we are not able to deliver food or allow anyone to pick up food outside of our pantry's hours.

We usually distribute all the food during the event and/or the food items must be kept cold which we cannot accommodate in our building.

11. How can I get food if I'm not able to come to this event?

We understand that our event is not always convenient for everyone. If someone is not able to pick up food for you, there are still many opportunities in the area to get free food items if you are in need.

Please see Harvesters' Get Food Assistance page for helpful info.

12. Can I volunteer at this event?

Yes, thank you for your interest! You can sign up to volunteer through Harvesters or through Clay County Public Health's volunteer interest form.

13. Can I donate food for the pantry?

Clay County Public Health Center cannot accept food donations for our mobile food pantry. However, you can donate food to Harvesters.

Do you have extras from your garden that you'd like to donate? Harvesters also has a program where you can donate produce that you've grown. Click here to learn more.

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1. What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rash that can look like pimples or blisters on the face, the inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Monkeypox infections are typically not severe; symptoms are usually similar to the flu with a rash and resolve within 2-4 weeks.

At this time, Clay County Public Health Center has not identified any cases of monkeypox in its jurisdiction. Kansas City, Missouri announced its first case of monkeypox on June 18, 2022.

On July 23, the World Health Organization declared the monkeypox outbreak to be a global health emergency. As of August 2, 83 countries are experiencing a monkeypox outbreak.

2. How is monkeypox spread?

The monkeypox virus is most often spread through direct contact with a rash or sores of someone who has the virus. It can also spread through contact with clothing, bedding and other items used by a person with monkeypox, or from respiratory droplets that can be passed through prolonged face-to-face contact. 

Transmission can happen during sex or other intimate activities, such as: 

• Oral, anal, and vaginal sex; 
• Hugging, kissing, cuddling and massage; 
• Contact with bedding or other items that have the virus on them during or after intimate activity. 

People are unlikely to get the virus by trying on clothing in a store or touching nonporous items like door handles and counters. Additionally, some activities that people learned to limit during Covid-19 surges are probably not as risky for monkeypox transmission. For example, sitting on a subway, bus or other public transportation or going to an office or school are unlikely to put people at risk of a monkeypox exposure. 

3. Who can get monkeypox?

Any person, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can acquire and spread monkeypox. Currently, the vast majority of the known monkeypox cases are among men who have sex with men.

Traveling to a country currently experiencing an outbreak could increase your risk of contracting monkeypox. If you are planning international travel, check that country’s infection rate on the WHO website.

4. What should I do if I have a new or unexplained rash (or other symptoms)?

Avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until you have been checked out by a health care provider. When you see a health care provider, wear a mask.

If you don’t have a provider or health insurance, call your local public health department. Clay County Public Health Center does not perform physical exams or accept walk-in appointments. Please call 816-595-4200 if you live in Clay County and need guidance.

5. Can I get tested for monkeypox?

Testing can be provided at Clay County Public Health Center on a case-by-case basis. No walk-ins will be accepted. Anyone who believes they have monkeypox symptoms (rash/lesions) should call Clay County Public Health Center at 816-595-4200.

To be tested at CCPHC and through the State Public Health Lab (SPHL), patients must have symptoms meet certain criteria*:   

• Contact with a person or persons with a similar appearing rash or with a person who has received a diagnosis of confirmed or probable monkeypox OR   
• Had close or intimate in-person contact with persons in a social network experiencing monkeypox infections. This includes meeting partners through an online website, digital application (“app”), or social event (e.g., a bar or party) OR   
• Traveled, within 21 days of illness onset outside the United States to a country with confirmed cases of monkeypox or where Monkeypox virus is endemic OR   
• Had contact with a dead or live wild animal or exotic pet that is an African endemic species, or used a product derived from such animals (e.g., game meat, creams, lotions, powders, etc.)   

*What if I don’t meet requirements for testing? 

If you do not meet the requirements for testing through the SPHL but still want to be tested, contact a health care provider who will take a swab of your lesions and send to a commercial lab. There may be costs. Please check with your insurance company to see if they will cover the lab's testing. 

Commercial labs currently testing for monkeypox: 

• Labcorp 
• Quest 
• Mayo Clinic 
• Sonic Healthcare 
• Aegis Sciences 

6. How can I get vaccinated against monkeypox?

For the northwest region of Missouri, the Kansas City Health Department distributes the monkeypox (MPV) vaccine, Jynneos. Missouri residents who believe they are at high-risk should fill out this online form to check their eligibility for vaccination. All information is confidential.

Per the CDC and Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, KCHD can vaccinate:

• Those who are considered high or medium risk after an exposure to a confirmed case and who have been approved by the state for vaccination because of their risk level.
• Missouri residents who have received their 1st dose out-of-state and can provide that documentation to receive a 2nd dose.
• Missouri residents if they meet the following requirements:
  • You've had a sex partner in the past 14 days who received an MPV diagnosis.
  • You've engaged in sex in a social and/or sexual venue in the last 14 days.
  • You are gay, bisexual, other MSM or transgender and in the past 14 days have had group sex or sex with multiple partners.
  • You are gay, bisexual, other MSM or transgender and in the past 14 days have had sex at a commercial sex venue or in association with an event, venue, or defined geographic area where MPV transmission has been reported.

7. Can I get the vaccine if I was exposed to monkeypox more than 14 days ago?

Not at this time. Vaccine given past the 14-day window will not provide protection or reduce risk of symptoms.  

8. Can I get a vaccine to prevent monkeypox even if I have not been exposed, like if I plan to travel to an area that has monkeypox?

Only a person who has likely been exposed to monkeypox already is eligible for vaccination.

We recommend you take precautions to protect yourself including avoiding skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox; not handing or touching the bedding, towels or clothing of a person who knows they have monkeypox; and washing your hands or using hand sanitizer often.

9. What can I do to protect myself?

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
• Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
• Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
• Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
• Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

For gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, the following activities put you at high risk for exposure:

• Having sex or other intimate contact with multiple or anonymous people (such as those met through social media, dating apps, or at parties) increases your risk of exposures;
• Clubs, raves, saunas, sex parties and other places with skin-to-skin or face-to-face contact with many people may also increase risk of exposure, especially if people are wearing less clothing.
• Personnel who collect specimens should use personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with recommendations for health care settings.

10. How severe can monkeypox be?

Hospitalization has been rare in the current outbreak, and no deaths have been reported from monkeypox in the U.S. But since the monkeypox rash can be painful and can cause permanent scarring, follow the latest guidelines to protect yourself.

11. Is monkeypox going to be another pandemic like COVID-19?

The spread of monkeypox is different than the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• There is a vaccine for monkeypox.
• Monkeypox can be treated with available antiviral medicines.
• While COVID-19 passed easily from person to person, monkeypox does not spread as easily between people. Monkeypox transmission typically requires skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with body fluids, or prolonged, close face-to-face contact.

12. How can I learn more about monkeypox?

The following websites are trusted sources for information about monkeypox.

• Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
• Centers for Disease Control

Show All Answers

1. Who can get Narcan at Clay County Public Health Center?

Typically, Narcan is a great thing to carry and keep at home if you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, especially those struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD) or those who are taking high-dose opioid medications.

Anyone can pick up Narcan at CCPHC, regardless of where you live or why you need it.

Please note that this box is for individual community members, not for people who wish to take multiple doses to distribute to others (see the question below regarding getting more than one dose).

The box operates on a system of trust that community members grab an appropriate amount of Narcan and will not tamper with the items in and around the box.

2. How do I get Narcan at Clay County Public Health Center?

To pick up your free box of Narcan, you must first come to Clay County Public Health Center’s building at 800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068 during our regular business hours. These hours are typically 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

After entering through the front doors, look ahead and to the left. Near the door to the Rodgers Health clinic, a white metal box should be seen against the wall. This is the self-serve Narcan distribution box.

Grab one box of Narcan from inside the metal box and one plastic bag of information from the top of the metal box.

3. How many doses can I get?

We ask that everyone only grabs one box per visit. Each box contains two doses.

4. How much does it cost to get Narcan from CCPHC?

There is no cost. Everyone can pick up one box for free.

5. How do I use/administer Narcan?

When you grab a Narcan box from inside the box, make sure to also grab an information bag from the top of the box.

These zip-locked bags contain:

• Instructions for how to administer Narcan
• 911 Good Samaritan Law information
• Recovery community centers
• Treatment agencies
• A QR code for reporting the usage of Narcan
• Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation device with instructions

You can also find videos and trainings on administering naloxone on the following websites:

• CDC
• Narcan
• Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (5 free modules of training)

6. What precautions are in place to prevent children from accessing the Narcan?

The CCPHC building has numerous children in its lobby every day. We want to assure everyone that there are several barriers in place that would make it hard for a child to access and ingest the medicine.

The distribution box has a heavy spring-loaded door. The Narcan doses are inside a sealed box and then inside the box, each dose is in a blister pack that must be peeled open. Even in the worse-case scenario of a child being able to get through all these barriers and administer Narcan to themselves, the medication would ultimately not cause them any harm.

7. What if I want more than one box of Narcan so that I can share through my job or community group?

If you would like to get Narcan for an agency or organization like a school, faith-based organization, office, community center, fire/police department, etc., please do not grab from the CCPHC box.

Contact CCPHC’s emergency planner, Wennekota Tarama, at wtarama@clayhealth.com for assistance or go to https://getmonaloxone.com/ to order.

8. What are other options for accessing naloxone?

Other area health departments offer Narcan at their locations. The Cass County Health Department has a similar distribution box and at Platte County Health Department or the Wyandotte County Health Department, you can ask the front desk.

NEXT Distro is an online and mail-based harm reduction service designed to reduce opioid overdose deaths, prevent injection-related disease transmission, and improve the lives of people who use drugs. Through the website, you can request injectable intramuscular naloxone or Narcan nasal spray to be mailed to your home if you are unable to access naloxone locally.

There may be more ways to access naloxone across Clay County in the future, as part of the efforts of a local task force focused on reducing opioid-related deaths in the county.

9. How should naloxone be stored?

Store naloxone at controlled room temperature 68 °F to 77 °F. Temperature excursions are permitted between 41 °F and 104 °F. Do not freeze or expose Naloxone to excessive heat above 104 °F.

10. How can I learn more about naloxone and stopping drug overdose?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has easy-to-understand information and FAQs about these topics. We encourage you to visit their website and explore the webpages under Stop Overdose for tons of helpful information about this topic that impacts many in our community.

You can also find opioid and overdose prevention resources for a variety of audiences on Clay County Public Health Center’s website.

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1. What is the Omicron variant?

Omicron is the name of a variant of the COVID-19 virus. A variant is a mutation found in the COVID-19 virus that might cause the disease to act differently and affect people differently compared to what we’re already seen. 

Omicron has been named a “Variant of Concern” by the World Health Organization.

2. Is the Omicron variant in the United States?

Yes. CDC announced on Wednesday, Dec. 1 that the first case of COVID-19 caused by Omicron was found in the U.S.

The first case was in a traveler who returned from South Africa on November 22, 2021. The individual had mild symptoms that are improving, is self-quarantining and has been since testing positive. All close contacts have been contacted and have tested negative.

3. Is the Omicron variant in Clay County or Missouri?

The first COVID-19 case caused by Omicron in Missouri was announced December 3, 2021. The Missouri Dept. of Health & Senior Services was notified by public health partners of a sample presumed positive for the Omicron variant originating from a St. Louis City resident who had recent domestic travel history. The sample was originally sequenced as part of commercial laboratory surveillance and results are currently awaiting confirmation by the CDC.

4. Why should I care about Omicron?

This variant is very new and we don’t know exactly how large a threat it could be to people’s health. However, we do have a tool that has proven effective against previous variants: vaccination. Omicron makes it even more important to get vaccinated (everyone age 5+) and get your booster shot (if eligible). 

In addition to vaccination, Omicron should also encourage us to use the other tools we have to prevent spreading germs. This includes wearing a mask and keeping distance while around others, avoiding crowds, getting tested for COVID-19, washing your hands often, covering your coughs and sneezes and more.

5. Is Omicron more dangerous than other variants?

Because this variant is new, experts still have a lot to learn about it. Currently, it is unknown how efficiently the Omicron variant can spread from person to person. It is unknown whether Omicron is more transmissible than other variants.

Scientists have found that Omicron has a large number of mutations in portions of the genome that can potentially increase how easily this variant of COVID-19 spreads and prevent treatments from being as effective as they’ve been in the past.

6. How can I protect myself from Omicron?

Although we are still learning about Omicron, we’ve been fighting COVID-19 since last year and we know what people can do to protect themselves. If you’re not yet vaccinated – now is the time. In areas of high and substantial transmission, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask indoors. Remember to stay 6 feet away from people and avoid crowds and poorly ventilated areas.

7. Do the COVID-19 vaccines protect against Omicron?

Health experts are studying how effective the COVID-19 vaccines are against the Omicron variant. It will take several weeks or longer before there is enough data to understand how well the vaccines work against the variant.

Many experts believe that current vaccines will remain effective, especially against severe disease. For the best protection, all people eligible for a booster dose should get it as soon as possible.

8. What are the symptoms of the Omicron variant?

Omicron is still COVID-19 so symptoms will likely be the same or similar to other variants of COVID-19. See a list of known symptoms of COVID-19.

Scientists are still working to learn how the Omicron variant specially affects people who get it. If any different symptoms are discovered, this update will be provided to the public so they can better identify their illness. If you feel sick - you should get tested.

9. Why are there new variants of COVID-19?

Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. Some variants emerge and disappear while others stick around for a long time. New variants of the COVID-19 virus are expected to occur. CDC and other public health organizations continue to monitor for new and existing variants so they can provide updated information to help keep the public safe.

You can help prevent the COVID-19 virus to stop mutating by stopping the disease from continuing to spread. Taking measures to reduce the spread of infection, including getting a COVID-19 vaccine and wearing masks in places where community transmission is substantial or high, are the best ways to slow the emergence of new variants. To see if Clay County is experiencing low, moderate, substantial or high community transmission, visit the data hub webpage at clayhealth.com/data.

10. Can I learn what type of COVID I have?

COVID-19 test results – those given by pharmacies, health organizations, etc. – will only tell you if COVID-19 is present in your sample or not. They will not tell you which variant you have.

11. How are variants discovered?

Variants are discovered through “genomic sequencing.” Sequencing is a process that scientists use to decode the genes that make up a virus and learn more about the virus. Samples collected through testing go through sequencing at a laboratory. This process takes more time and effort than basic COVID-19 testing, which is why it is usually not possible to tell each person which variant they have. Instead, samples are chosen for sequencing either because the person is more likely to have a variant (due to travel, known exposure, etc.) or random samples are chosen for sequencing to help identify which variants are spreading in a community.

Missouri: Missouri is participating in the national surveillance for COVID-19 variants of concern. Our state’s public health laboratory is sequencing a limited number of samples for presence of genetic material specific to each variant. See the latest data. Since February 2021, the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services has been collaborating with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the University of Missouri to test wastewater samples for the presence of COVID-19variants in our communities. Learn more about Missouri’s Sewershed Surveillance Project.

12. How does Omicron compare to Delta?

CDC is following the details of this new variant closely. Omicron is not derived directly from Alpha, Delta or other Variants of Concern. 

• Therapeutics: The Omicron variant has several genetic changes (mutations). Scientists are working to determine if these changes have implications for the benefits provided by existing COVID-19 therapeutic treatments. Based on the genetic changes in the spike protein, reduction in the susceptibility to certain treatments is likely. 
• Transmissibility: It is not yet known how easily Omicron spreads compared to the highly transmissible Delta variant. Research efforts are underway to better understand this issue. 
• Disease Severity: More data are needed to know if Omicron breakthrough infection or reinfections cause more severe illness or death than other variants. Based on preliminary information from South Africa, no unusual symptoms have been reported following infection with the Omicron variant 

Show All Answers

1. Can I get a booster shot of the COVID vaccine?

Anyone ages 12 years and older that completed their primary series and it has been at least 2 months since their last COVID monovalent vaccine or booster is eligible to receive one bivalent booster shot. This updated booster became available starting September 2022.

Children ages 5-11 years that completed their primary series can get one monovalent booster shot. Updated bivalent boosters may become available in the coming months

Make an appointment with Clay County Public Health Center for your booster shot.

Learn more about boosters from CDC or in these additional FAQs.

2. Why should children get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Medical and public health experts, including the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend that children and adolescents age 6 months and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect them from contracting and spreading the virus.

The vaccine is the best way to protect children from becoming severely ill or having long-lasting health impacts due to COVID-19. While children and adolescents are typically at lower risk than adults of becoming severely ill or hospitalized from COVID-19, it is still possible. COVID-19 has become one of the top 10 causes of pediatric death, and tens of thousands of children and teens have been hospitalized with COVID-19. 

Another important reason for children to get the COVID-19 vaccine is to protect their friends, family, and the broader community from the spread of the virus. The higher the vaccination rates, the lower the chances that the coronavirus will mutate into additional variants.

3. How soon after having COVID can I get vaccinated?

You can get vaccinated after having COVID-19 as soon as you are able to end isolation. See the criteria for ending isolation here.

An exception would be for people who were treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma or people who have a history of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults or children (MIS-A or MIS-C). They may need to wait a while after recovering before they can get vaccinated and its recommended to talk to their doctor. 

4. Why should I get vaccinated if I've already had COVID-19?

Some recent studies indicate that immunity gained through infection can be highly effective. However, we are still learning exactly how long this natural immunity can last. Vaccination is also a much safer way to acquire immunity. While some people may have mild cases of COVID, it is not worth the risk of having a more serious case that requires medical intervention or results in long-term health issues.

Learn more

5. What do I do if I lose my vaccine card?

You can receive a copy of your vaccination record from Clay County Public Health Center by completing this online form. The record will include proof of your COVID-19 vaccination if you were vaccinated anywhere in Missouri. We cannot offer replacement cards at this time.

If you were vaccinated with Operation Safe or North Kansas City Hospital, a record of your vaccination can also be found in the myhealth patient portal. Learn more.

6. Can I stop wearing a mask and following public health protocols if I am vaccinated?

If you are vaccinated, you can resume many activities that you did before the pandemic. However, to maximize protection from variants and prevent possibly spreading it to others, it is recommended to wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission, even if you are vaccinated. Some cities, counties and businesses may require the use of a mask regardless of vaccination status. 

Please see CDC's guidance for When You've Been Fully Vaccinated.

7. After getting vaccinated, do I still need to quarantine after possible exposures?

See CDC's latest guidance for who needs to quarantine and when.

8. Can I still catch COVID after being vaccinated? Can I still spread COVID after being vaccinated?

Yes. It is still possible to contract COVID-19, with these cases being known as "breakthrough cases." Although the vaccine is highly effective at preventing COVID-19, is not 100% effective. There is some evidence that vaccination may make illness less severe for those who are vaccinated and still get sick.

If you've been vaccinated, you should still watch out for symptoms of COVID-19, especially if you’ve been around someone who is sick. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should get tested and stay home and away from others.

You may choose to continue to wear masks and practicing physical distancing, even after you have been vaccinated. Learn more about After You've Been Fully Vaccinated.

9. After I’ve gotten vaccinated, how long will it take to get immunity?

If it has been less than two weeks since your final dose of COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of your age, you are NOT considered fully vaccinated. Keep taking all precautions until you are fully vaccinated.

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines both require two doses of the vaccine to reach maximum effectiveness. Even after receiving your second dose, you will not be immediately protected from COVID-19. Studies show that it takes about one to two weeks after your last dose for your body to be able to protect itself against illness.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine takes about two weeks after your first and only dose.

10. Will I still be protected if I only get one dose? Why is important to get the second dose?

If you received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for your first dose, it is very important to get both doses of the vaccine so that your body develops enough antibodies to fight the COVID-19 virus if you get infected in the future.

It is also very important that you receive the second dose of your COVID-19 vaccine on time. The time frame between the vaccine’s first and second dose is determined by the companies producing the vaccine to maximize your body’s ability to create antibodies against the virus. Many vaccinators will go ahead and schedule your appointment for your second dose while making your first appointment or during your appointment.

Getting more than one dose for a vaccine is not unusual. In fact, it’s the norm. Many routine vaccines require more than one dose for maximum protection.

11. If I get symptoms shortly after I’ve been vaccinated, should I get tested?

If you have symptoms shortly after receiving the vaccine, these symptoms do not mean you have gotten COVID-19 from the vaccine. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may feel like flu and may even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days. For more information about symptoms after receiving the vaccine you can view the CDC’s What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine fact sheet.

12. What is community immunity or herd immunity? How many people need to get vaccinated to develop community immunity from COVID-19?

This term describes when enough people have protection - either because they’ve already had the disease or they’ve been vaccinated - it is unlikely a virus or bacteria can spread between people in a community and cause outbreaks of disease.

Public health experts are still learning about what percentage of a community would need to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity against COVID-19. The percentage needed to reach herd immunity varies by disease.

13. Are the vaccines effective against variants?

Yes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the COVID-19 vaccines offer protection against infection by most variants. Most important, they have prevented serious illness, hospitalization, and death, even at a time when new variants are spreading around the world.

In September 2022, updated booster vaccines became available. These new boosters contain an updated bivalent formula that both boosts immunity against the original coronavirus strain and also protects against the newer Omicron variants that account for most of the current cases. Updated boosters are intended to provide optimal protection against the virus and address waning vaccine effectiveness over time. 

Show All Answers

1. What are the recent changes to abortion access?

On June 24, the 2022 Supreme Court reversed the 1973 Supreme Court decision on Roe vs. Wade, which said that states can’t ban abortion if a fetus could not survive outside the womb.

Minutes later, Missouri’s attorney general, Eric Schmitt, signed the state’s “trigger ban” law*.

Missouri now bans all abortions, unless the life or health of a pregnant person is in danger. The law targets abortion providers by making it a class B felony to induce an abortion. Clinics or health providers prosecuted under the law could also lose their medical licenses. 

*What is a trigger law? A trigger law is a law that goes into effect when a specific event or condition occurs.

2. Are there any changes in accessing birth control, Plan B or IVF?

Missouri's trigger ban is not clear when it comes to these family planning measures. However, it seems that all of these remain available and legal in Missouri.

In a tweet at 5:35 p.m. on Wednesday, June 29, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said Missouri law does not ban birth control, even after Roe was overturned.

Additionally, the spokesperson for Missouri's Attorney General said: “Missouri law does not prohibit the use or provision of Plan B, or contraception."

3. Is there a plan to take away Plan B?

Plan B — sometimes called the morning-after pill or emergency contraception —isn’t immediately affected by the state’s trigger law.

It’s used after unprotected sex or if birth control fails. Plan B keeps a woman from releasing an egg, keeps an egg from being fertilized or keeps a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

Emergency contraception is still available at pharmacies in Missouri. You may have heard that Saint Luke’s Hospital group briefly stopped providing Plan B due to potential legal risk. The hospital system later reversed its decision.

4. Can pharmacies refuse to give me a medication?

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recently sent guidance to the nation’s retail pharmacies, reminding them of their role in ensuring access to reproductive health care services under federal civil rights laws.

Under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (Section 1557), 42 U.S.C. 18116, recipients of federal financial assistance cannot exclude an individual from participation in, denying them the benefits of, or otherwise subjecting them to discrimination based on sex and other bases (i.e., race, color, national origin, age, and disability) in their programs and activities. Under federal civil rights law, pregnancy discrimination includes discrimination based on current pregnancy, past pregnancy, potential or intended pregnancy, and medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth.

5. What kind of medical care is available in emergencies?

On July 11, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued clarifying guidance on the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA). This reaffirmed that it protects providers when offering legally-mandated, life- or health-saving abortion services in emergency situations.

Emergency medical conditions involving pregnant patients may include, but are not limited to, ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia with severe features.

6. Will I be arrested if I go to another state for an abortion?

Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who voted to overturn Roe vs. Wade, says no, states cannot forbid travel.

When he wrote the concurring opinion, he said that a state cannot stop its residents from traveling to another state to obtain an abortion because people have a constitutional right to interstate travel.

7. Local Policy

For the city of Kansas City, Missouri

On Thursday, June 30, 2022 the city council of Kansas City passed two resolutions:

• Resolution 220575: Declaring reproductive rights are fundamental human rights and criminalizing access to reproductive rights is a form of discrimination against women, girls and others who can become pregnant.
• Resolution 220575: This resolution was presented by Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and passed by the City Council. It instructs City Manager Brian Platt to negotiate with healthcare insurance providers so City employees receive financial help and reimbursement when they seek out-of-state health care (including abortion procedures.)

City employees would be offered a new insurance enrollment period to change their healthcare plans to include this coverage. The resolution states that reimbursement funds will not come from taxpayer dollars or the city’s general fund. Mayor Quinton Lucas later stated coverage would provide $300 for travel expenses. The money will not cover the procedure itself.

Attorney General Eric Schmitt says he will sue Kansas City. Mayor Lucas’ response/statement: "We will proudly and unabashedly stand up for the rights of Missouri women and Missouri families in their healthcare decisions. Kansas City's lawful resolutions are but one step in doing so."

8. Resources

Helpful Websites

• ReproductiveRights.gov – Learn more about your right to access birth control, medication, abortion services, other preventative health services. You can also file a complaint with HHS if you believe that you or another person’s civil rights or health information privacy rights have been violated.
• TheRightTime.org – A website from the Missouri Family Health Council, Inc. and Missouri Foundation for Health where you can learn about your birth control options and find local health centers.
• Reproductive Health Access Project – This organization mobilizes, trains, and supports clinicians to make sexual and reproductive health care accessible to everyone. Their focus is on abortion, contraception and miscarriage.

Local Health Care - Pregnancy, Contraception & Plan B Resources

Planned Parenthood

Northland Center
2900 NE 60th St, Suite 100
816-453-6000

Patty Brous Health Center of Kansas City
1001 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd. 
Kansas City, MO 64110
816-756-2277

Independence Health Center
815 N Noland Road
Independence, MO 64050
816-252-3800

Sam Rodgers Women's Health

Clay County
800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068
816-413-0662 | Appointment Line: 816-474-4920 

Northland
5330 North Oak Trfy, Suite 203, Kansas City, MO 64118
816-499-8100 | Appointment Line: 816-474-4920

Downtown
825 Euclid Ave., Kansas City, MO 64124
816-474-4920

Westside
2121 Summit St, Kansas City, MO 64108 
816-471-0900 | Appointment Line: 816-474-4920

KC Care

Midtown
3515 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111

Northeast
4601 Independence Ave., Kansas City, MO 64124

Homeroom Health
Serving infants, children, teens and young adults
30th & Troost in The Wonder Shops & Flats
1106 E. 30th St - Suite B, Kansas City, MO 64109

Research Medical Campus
2340 E. Meyer Boulevard, (Bld 1) Suite 200, Kansas City, MO 64132

Swope Health Services

Swope Health Maple Woods
Northland Human Services Building
3100 NE 83rd Street, Suite 1001, #140
Kansas City, MO 64119
816-321-3230

Swope Health Northland
2906 NW Vivion Road, Riverside, MO 64150
816-599-5050

Swope Health Central
3801 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Kansas City, MO  64130
816-923-5800

Swope Health Hickman Mills
Loma Vista Office Building
8800 Blue Ridge Blvd., 2nd Fl., Kansas City, MO  64138
816-321-3201

Swope Health Belton
204 E. North Ave., Belton, MO 64012
816-599-5170

Swope Health East
17844 E. 23rd St, Independence, MO 64057
816-599-5015

Swope Health Independence
11320 E. Truman Road, Independence, MO 64050
816-599-5200

Swope Health West
4835 State Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66102
913-321-2200

Swope Health Wyandotte
21 N. 12th St., Suite 400, Kansas City, KS 66102
 816-599-5111

Truman University Health

2211 Charlotte St., Kansas City, MO 64108
816-404-4966

Children's Mercy Northland - Teen Clinic

501 N.W. Barry Road, Kansas City, MO 64155 

Liberty Women's Clinic

1532 NE 96th St, Suite B, Liberty, MO 64068 | Call: 816-415-9415 | Text: 816-866-3939

Get help if you are facing an unwanted pregnancy

The two closest health clinics that provide abortion procedures are both in Overland Park, Kansas.

Planned Parenthood Clinic
4401 W. 109th St., #100, Overland Park, KS 66211
913-345-1400

Center for Women’s Health
4840 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS 66211
913-491-6878

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1. Do I have to make an appointment or can I just walk-in?

We currently offer STI services by appointment only.

2. How do I make an appointment?

Please call 816-595-4261 and a staff member will help you set up an appointment.

3. Do you accept Medicaid or health insurance?

We no longer accept insurance for testing. Self-pay fees will apply at the time of your visit. However, no one is denied services due to inability to pay. Call 816-595-4261 for additional details or any questions you may have. 

4. Do you ever offer free testing?

Free STI testing is available to local high school students and William Jewell College students if a student ID is provided.

5. What do I need to bring for my appointment?

Please bring your photo ID, Medicaid card, if you have one, and some form of payment. Also make sure you do not go to the bathroom one hour before your appointment so we can get accurate test results. Please call 816-595-4261 for more information.

6. What should I expect during my appointment?

Testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia for male patients is typically a urine sample and blood draw. Testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia for female patients is typically a self-swab and blood draw.  

To test HIV/RPR, there is a blood draw.

Only the patient is allowed in the exam room during the appointment.

Please call 816-595-4261 for more information.

7. I am worried because I had unprotected sex with someone I don't know very well last night, should I come in and get tested?

It is a very good idea to get tested; however, it is important to wait three weeks to get the most accurate results. Please call 816-595-4261 for more information.

8. I was treated at my doctor's office for chlamydia, but my partner doesn't have a doctor. Can they come to you for treatment?

Yes. It is very important that all partners be treated if you tested positive for an STI, otherwise you can get re-infected. 

Please have them call 816-595-4261 as soon as possible for an appointment. They should bring in a copy of your (their partner's) test results to their appointment so that the appropriate treatment can be provided.

9. If I have HIV, I would have symptoms, right?

Not necessarily. HIV, along with other STIs, often don't have symptoms at all. That is why it's important to get regular testing. Please call 816-595-4261 for more information.

10. What if I want more testing than what CCPHC provides?

Other local health organizations, like Platte County Health Department, may be able to provide what you're looking for. Check out the list of resources on our website.

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1. If I want to volunteer, is experience necessary?

No experience is necessary as we have opportunities where no experience is required, and we will train you for your position. Contact our volunteer coordinator at 816-595-4200 for more information.

2. What is the process if I want to volunteer or complete and internship?

Complete an application. Applicants who are selected will be contacted by our volunteer coordinator. For more information about volunteering or completing an internship, contact our volunteer coordinator at 816-595-4200. Download an application (PDF).

3. How often do you need volunteers?

We need volunteers periodically throughout the year. You can volunteer as much or as little as you like depending on what your schedule will allow. Contact our volunteer coordinator at 816-595-4200 for more information.

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1. Who in my family is eligible for WIC?

Pregnant and post-partum (up to six months) women, women who are breastfeeding (up to one year), infants, and children up until their fifth birthday.

2. Can fathers, grandparents, guardians, or foster parents apply for benefits for the children living in their households?

Yes. Although WIC doesn't provide food packages for these individuals, they are still encouraged to apply for WIC benefits that help feed the children in their families.

3. Do I need to be enrolled in Medicaid to participate in WIC?

No. Mothers and dependent children do not need to be enrolled in Medicaid and are still eligible for WIC even if they are employed and/or they are covered by private insurance.

4. If I already receive SNAP benefits, can I also sign up for WIC?

Yes. In fact, if you qualify for SNAP, you also qualify for WIC and are already income-eligible. You are allowed to receive benefits from both programs at the same time.

5. Are there other assistance programs that I might be eligible for?

Yes. If you are eligible for WIC, there is a good chance you could be eligible for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the Free and Reduced School Lunch Program, or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families).

6. Do I need to be a US citizen to enroll?

No. You do not need to be a US citizen or have a social security number to enroll in WIC. Participating in WIC will not effect your citizenship eligibility.

7. Can WIC help with special dietary needs?

Yes. Participants are given food packages that take into consideration a person's life stage, breastfeeding status, and special dietary needs. This also includes hypoallergenic formula for infants.

8. How long do I have to wait for benefits after signing up?

Benefits are added to your WIC card during your appointment, so you are able to start shopping for food right away!

9. Are families ever denied WIC because too many people sign up?

No. As more families enroll in WIC, the amount of funding for the program also increases.