Cook County residents can get free flu and COVID-19 shots at Saturday vaccination clinics offered by Cook County Department of Public Health, Cook County Health and CountyCare, starting Saturday, Oct. 18. The weekly clinics will continue through March 28.
The vaccination clinics will rotate on certain Saturdays of the month in five different Cook County Health ambulatory clinic sites located in Blue Island, Robbins, Ford Heights, Arlington Heights and North Riverside.
The first vaccination clinic will occur at the Robbins Health Center, 13450 S. Kedzie Ave. in Robbins on Oct. 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Appointments are not required, and the shots are free of charge.
Cook County Department of Public Health is following the science-based respiratory virus vaccine guidance that was recently issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are generally recommended for all people ages 6 months and older.
“Vaccines are safe and effective and have proven time and time again to prevent people from getting sick,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Thanks to our state guidance, we are ensuring that anybody who wants to be vaccinated can be. We’re urging all residents to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting vaccinated.”
In the 2024-25 respiratory virus season, 30.6% of Cook County residents received a flu vaccination, according to Illinois Department of Public Health data. The vaccination rate for Blacks was only 19.2%, compared to 25.7% for Hispanics, 28.1% for Whites and 28.8% for Asians.
State records show that only 14% of Cook County residents received COVID-19 vaccinations last season. The vaccination rates for Hispanics, Blacks and Asians ranged between 8.6 % and 10.5%, while 14% of whites received the COVID-19 shots.
Research has shown that access to health care, transportation and insurance coverage is linked to vaccination rates. Historical mistrust in the health care system and misinformation also play a role.
Cook County Department of Public Health counters vaccination myths with scienced-based facts on its website.
Residents are encouraged to bring an ID and insurance card to the clinic, if available. Health insurance is not required, and immigration status does not affect eligibility — everyone is welcome.
Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial health plans cover the cost of routine vaccines, including flu and COVID-19. No one will be turned away if uninsured.
Free vaccines are offered year-round at Cook County Health locations by appointment. To schedule a vaccination appointment, call 312-864-0200.
For more information about Cook County Department of Public Health programs and services, visit www.cookcountypublichealth.org.
