Flu

Cook County Department of Public Health follows the evidence-based vaccination recommendations from Illinois Department of Public Health , which are informed by the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee. Illinois guidelines are consistent with current recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians .

About Flu

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

Prevention

• The single most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccine each year.
• Children at least 6 months old, all pregnant people and adults 18 and older should get a flu vaccine, per state of Illinois guidance .
• The flu vaccine is safe and effective.
• Check out these CDC strategies to prevent respiratory illnesses .

Find vaccines

• Free flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics in suburban Cook County
• Vaccines.gov
• Cook County Health
• Vaccines for Children (VFC) program (free for eligible children). Find out if your child qualifies.
• Health care providers
• Pharmacies (for children 3 years and older)

Fact sheets about Flu (PDF)

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