Sen. Marshall: Deeply Concerned with the Vaccine Distribution Efforts in Kansas

Press Release

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. questioned Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Secretary Lee Norman yesterday on a video conference regarding vaccine distribution efforts in the state. Troubling REPORTS out of Kansas recently highlighted the disparities saying, "About 4.8% of Black Kansans have gotten vaccinated against COVID-19… a figure that is half the vaccination rate for white residents, roughly 10% of whom have gotten their shots. About 4% of the state's American Indian population and 5% of Asian-American residents have gotten their vaccine, according to the numbers, which were publicly disclosed Friday for the first time. Around 7% of those who identify as Hispanic or Latino have been immunized." Additionally, as of yesterday, the CDC RANKS KANSAS 46TH for distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines.

"Whether it is the disparity amongst various communities or the fact that our state ranks 46th for doses administered, I am deeply concerned with the vaccine distribution efforts in Kansas," said Senator Marshall. "What your background is, where you live, or your income should never be a barrier to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. From day one, I have supported efforts to ensure all Americans that want a vaccine can have a vaccine at no cost. It is only through outreach to all communities and inclusion of all Americans that we will reach herd immunity by April or May and truly defeat this virus once and for all."

Source