CHICAGO -The Chicago Department of Public Health ( CDPH ) is once again teaming up with health departments and healthcare organizations throughout Illinois to encourage residents to get a flu shot during Vaccinate Illinois Week ( VIW ), December 7 through 13. VIW is a statewide observance focused on educating the public about the importance of getting a flu vaccine during the fall and winter months. VIW grew out of Vaccinate Chicago week, started by CDPH in 2012.
During VIW, Chicago residents will see and hear coordinated transit, digital, social media, print and broadcast advertisements reminding them to get vaccinated. In addition, the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois headquarters in Chicago will light up the building with the message "Get a flu shot" from December 6 through 8.
Public health officials recommend that everyone six months of age or older get a flu shot. Among those more vulnerable to complications from flu are pregnant women, young children, the elderly and anyone with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes or a weakened immune system. A flu vaccine is needed every year because flu viruses are constantly changing.
"It's not too late to get a flu shot," said CDPH Chief Medical Officer Julie Morita, MD. "Flu season typically peaks in January and February. Get vaccinated now to protect yourself and others from illness."
Though the flu shot does not cover every possible strain of influenza seen every season, it still remains the single best protection against the flu in general. Getting a vaccine that provides increased protection is better than no vaccination.
CDPH will host three flu clinics for VIW where residents can get their flu shots at no cost to the individual:
Saturday
12/6/14
19th Ward Office
10402 S. Western Ave
10AM-1PM
Thursday
12/11/14
City Hall-2nd floor lobby
121 N. LaSalle St.
9AM-3PM
Saturday
12/13/14
15th Ward Office
3045 W. 63rd St.
10AM-1PM
Residents can also use the CDPH flu shot app to find a flu shot clinic nearby or call 311 to locate one of our Fast Track Immunization Clinics. CDPH Fast Track Clinics provide flu vaccinations at no charge for adults of all ages and all children over age six months. No appointment is necessary; vaccinations are given on a first come, first served basis.
In addition to getting a flu shot, you can also reduce your risk by:
Washing your hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoiding close contact with sick people. If you are sick, stay home from school or work.
Vaccinate Illinois Week is a statewide observance of National Influenza Vaccination Week, an annual initiative led by the Centers for Disease Control ( CDC ) to educate the public about the importance of influenza vaccination throughout the fall and winter months.