This week is free immunization week in Chicago. Families of young children are encouraged to check their children’s immunization records and (if need be) make an appointment to get them vaccinated.
To help out, the Chicago Department of Publich Health (CDPH) is holding free immunization clinics in various areas.
In Chicago, thanks to some strategic partnering with area baby and maternal groups, 75 percent of children receiving the full series of vaccines by age two.
Still, cases of pertussis (or whooping cough) have been on the rise in Illinos, with more than 1,00o cases in 2011. That’s compared to 194 cases in 2001. Approximately, 1/3rd of these infections occurred among children younger than 7 years of age.
Measles has also been on the rise. In 2011, 222 cases and 17 outbreaks were reported in the US. From 2001-10, there were only 37 and 140 cases reported in the US. Measles can lead to encephalitis (brain inflammation) and possibly death. It’s also a highly contagious disease.
CDPH is offering helpful online tools for caregivers to better understand the recommended vaccines, schedules and how they will protect your child. You can download the recommended schedule here.
Free immunization clinics for the rest of the week can be found at:
Wednesday, April 25, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Graham Schook, 4436 S. Union
Thursday, April 26, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Catholic Charities WIC Food Center, 2400 S. Kedzie
Thursday, April 26, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Lower West WIC, 1643 W. Cermak
Friday, April 27, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Hamline School, 4747 S. Bishop
Friday, April 27, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Cook County Austin, 4800 W. Chicago.
Click here for more information about free immunizations taking place during the week.
