New updates to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Vax Verify immunization portal now includes use of the SMART™ Health Card, which allows users to download a QR code they can use to easily confirm their COVID-19 vaccination status at businesses, events, and other locations. QR codes are scannable images used to conveniently link digital devices to information.
Vax Verify is an online system that allows Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record.
“As a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep people safer, some businesses, events, organizations and others are opting to require proof of vaccination before entering,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “We’ve seen multiple surges of COVID-19 and more and more people are making the choice to get vaccinated. The ability to download a QR code will help residents confirm their vaccination status when requested.”
The QR code can be downloaded or kept in Apple Wallet and presented for COVID-19 vaccination verification. Businesses wanting to verify vaccination status can download the Commons Project SMART Health Card Verifier App on Apple AppStore and Google Play store.
The verification system follows best practices to protect confidential health information. In order to download proof of vaccination, residents will go through a brief, one-time identity verification process to gain access to their immunization history.
After the verification process, individuals can see their own record in the Illinois Comprehensive Automated Immunization Registry Exchange (I-CARE).
Immunization records are kept confidential and only the individual, or the individual’s parent or guardian if the individual is younger than 18 years, can access their vaccination history. Some individuals with very common names will need to take additional steps to securely prove their identities.
Go to vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 to find COVID-19 vaccine locations near you.