Public Health Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness plans for and responds to public health emergencies. This is done to ensure the health of the residents and visitors to Cherokee County.
Emergency Preparedness works to:
- Prepares and plan for public health emergencies with community partners and agencies with whom we respond.
- Coordinates with epidemiology regarding surveillance of disease within the county to ensure early detection of outbreaks.
- Plans for social distancing measures such as isolation, quarantine, and the closing of venues to decrease the spread of disease.
- Plans for the dissemination of health information during public health emergencies to ensure residents and visitors have the most accurate and updated information.
- Plans for mass countermeasure dispensing/vaccination to residents and visitors in the event of an emergency where medications/vaccines are available
- Exercises with community partners and agencies to ensure a timely and well-coordinated response.
Related Links
Immunization Program
Cherokee County Health Dept provides vaccinations for infants, children and adults to help ensure their health and the overall health of our community.
Immunization Clinic
Immunizations are provided on a walk-in basis (no appt needed) on Monday’s from 8:30am-12:00am & 1:00pm-4:00pm.
Appointments needed for any other day and can be made by calling 620-429-3087.
Please bring your immunization shot record with you.
Vaccines for Children (VFC Program)
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program is a federally funded vaccine program that provides vaccines for children (birth thru 18yrs) who meet Federal and State eligibility guidelines. There is a $10.00 administration fee per vaccine for children who qualify for VFC vaccine. There is a $50.00 cap per family per visit. Contact the health department for eligibility requirements.
Adult Immunizations
Immunizations are not just for kids. Regardless of age, we all need immunizations to keep us healthy. With time, immunity from childhood immunizations can wear off and you may be at risk for new and different diseases.
Flu Clinics
Usually available starting in late September or October at the office and numerous locations and businesses around Cherokee County. Please call for Flu Clinic dates and locations.
Watch for information about our drive thru flu shot clinic.
Additional Links
Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)
Immunization Schedule for Infants and Children
Flu Shot Clinic
Flu and Pneumonia Forms
Forms:
Vaccine Information Statements:
WHEN & WHERE:
- October 24th from 9-3
- Cherokee County Health Department
- 110 E Walnut St
- Columbus, Ks 66725

Emergency Planning
Links
Local Emergency Planning Committee Members
Chairman:
Richard Mattson
Law Enforcement:
David Groves, Sheriff
Terry Clugston, Sheriff
Brian Henderson, Baxter Police Department
Billy Charles, Galena Police Department
Kyle Clark, Columbus Police Department
Fire:
Steve Hall, Galena Fire
Dakota Wixon, Baxter Fire
Steven Burton, Columbus Fire
School:
Dr. Brian Smith Columbus School
EMS:
Terry Clugston, Columbus
Ron Costlow, BaxterSprings
Medical:
Mercy Maude Norton
Angie Saporito, Mercy Maude Norton
Emergency Management:
Matt Haviland, Emergency Management Director
Health Department:
Peyton Kessler/Administrator, Cherokee County Health Dept.
Environmental:
Todd Campbell, EPA
Vulnerable Needs:
Randy Pommier, Class LTD
Travis McBride, Administrator, Medical Lodge
LeeAnne Ewing, Family Life Center
Industry:
Richard Matteson, Training Manager, Jayhawk Fine Chemical
Public Works:
Randy Coble, City of Columbus
Animal Health:
Curtis Greggory, Veterinary
Media:
Larry Hiatt
Cherokee County Commissioners
Cherokee County is divided into three commission districts based on population. Each district elects their representative (County Commissioner) to a term of four years.
Who is my Commissioner?
Map of the current commission districts: Cherokee County Commissioner Districts (PDF).
Meeting Time & Location
Monday at 9:00 a.m. in Room #109 of the Courthouse
Meeting Agendas, Minutes, and Resolutions Click here for videos of County Commission meetings. "Live / Upcoming" for current meeting, or "On Demand" (Search "county commission") for prior meetings / videos.
If you need to register to vote, or would like to review your voter information, please go to the County Clerk's voter information page.
