Flu activity in suburban Cook County has elevated from high to very high for the week ending Dec. 27, 2025, and continues to increase, according to Cook County Department of Public Health’s respiratory surveillance data.
RSV activity has elevated from low to moderate and is increasing. COVID-19 activity remains low but is increasing.
The percentage of emergency room visits associated with the flu continues to increase and has surpassed peak values seen last year. Hospital admissions associated with flu and COVID-19 are dramatically increasing. ICU admissions for flu nearly doubled.
Cook County Department of Public Health is encouraging all individuals to stay up to date with all recommended respiratory virus vaccines, practice good hygiene (cover mouth when coughing, wash your hands) and stay home if sick until you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms have subsided.
The health department, in conjunction with Cook County Health and CountyCare, is offering free vaccinations on rotating Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in five suburban Cook County locations until March 28. No appointment is needed.
A person’s immigration status will not stop them from receiving immunizations. Insurance is not required, but community members are asked to bring an I.D. and insurance card, if available. Access the full schedule for the Saturday vaccination clinics here.
Here is where vaccinations will be offered for the remainder of January:
- Jan. 10: Cottage Grove Health Center, 1645 South Cottage Grove Ave., Ford Heights.
- Jan. 17: Robbins Health Center, 13450 South Kedzie Ave., Robbins.
- Jan. 24: Arlington Heights Health Center, 3250 North Arlington Heights Road, Suite 300, Arlington Heights.
