The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is urging residents to get vaccinated against the flu, amidst a premature influx of cases for the 2026-27 season.
Here’s what to know and where to get your shot.
CDPH documents abnormally high flu activity for fall 2026
The CDPH stated influenza activity in Chicago is currently “higher than usual for this time of year compared to prior seasons” in a report released Thursday, October 22.
Positive influenza tests is 2.1% higher currently than the same period in previous years, with influenza A accounting for 98% of specimens tested last week.
Additionally, emergency room hospitalizations for influenza among children ages younger than 18 are slightly elevated.
Emergency room and intensive care hospitalizations still remain low overall, however, among all age groups.
Know the symptoms
Early detection is important for slowing the spread of flu, so Chicagoans should be aware of the symptoms.
The flu is a contagious respiratory virus spread through tiny droplets created when infected individuals sneeze, cough, or talk.
Symptoms of the flu include the following:
- Fever and/or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Muscle and body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal distress
Where to get vaccinated
Chicagoans can get no-cost vaccinations against the flu and COVID-19 right now at CDPH immunization clinics.
The CDPH runs four clinics throughout the city:
- Greater Lawn West 55th Street Health Hub – 4150 W. 55th St. | Monday–Wednesday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Uptown West Wilson Avenue Health Hub – 845 W. Wilson Ave., 2nd floor | Monday and Wednesday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Pilsen South Ashland Health Hub – 1713 S. Ashland Ave. | Thursday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
- Roseland East 115th Street Health Hub – 200 E. 115th St., 2nd floor | Thursday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
The CDPH will also host various pop-up immunization events around the city to help Chicagoans access free immunizations.
Click here to view the full CDPH vaccine clinic calendar and learn more information.
