‘Perfect time’ to escape sharing Thanksgiving with flu — Cook public health offers free vaccine clinics

Eligible Cook County residents seeking to offset a bout with the flu over the holidays can take advantage of a vaccination clinic in Arlington Heights on Saturday.

Cook County Department of Public Health staff will provide flu and COVID-19 shots for people who are uninsured or on Medicaid from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Arlington Heights Health Center, 3250 N. Arlington Heights Road.

“It takes two to three weeks for respiratory vaccinations to provide maximum protection in vaccinated individuals,” CCDPH Chief Operating Officer Dr. Kiran Joshi said in a statement.

“So, this is a perfect time to get vaccinated before gathering with family and friends for Thanksgiving.”

Recent data shows low flu activity in suburban Cook County, but emergency room visits and hospitalizations are trending higher compared to fall 2025.

Future CCDPH Saturday clinics at the Arlington Heights Senior Center will be held Dec. 12, Jan. 9, and Feb. 13.

Meanwhile, other vaccination events are being offered by community organizations, churches and libraries throughout the suburbs in partnership with Cook and the state. These sessions are open to people with Medicaid, private insurance or those who are not insured.

One upcoming clinic is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 18 at Heirich House, 1301 Ashland Ave., Des Plaines.

For more information about other flu and COVID-19 clinics in the area, visit cookcountypublichealth.org/communicable-diseases/flu-and-covid-vaccination-clinics.