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 (covering your cough, washing your hands) and stay home if you’re sick until you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and your 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, IL 60401
Jan. 17:
Robbins Health Center
13450 South Kedzie Ave
Robbins, IL 60472
Jan. 24:
Arlington Heights Health Center
3250 North Arlington Heights Road, Suite 300
Arlington Heights, IL 60004