Parents often have questions about the vaccines recommended for their children. You can find a list of required and recommended vaccines in the Minimum Health Requirements document [ ENGLISH | SPANISH ]. For a vaccine schedule for children from zero to six years old, view the CDC's guidance.
Your child’s doctor can answer any questions you might have about vaccines. If your child does not have a doctor, you can enroll them as a patient at one of our School-Based Health Centers, or visit a CPS-managed vaccination event where we can answer your questions. If you need assistance finding a healthcare provider, call the Healthy CPS Hotline at 773-553-5437 (KIDS).
COVID-19 Vaccines
Although current levels of COVID-19 are relatively low, the virus is still here and a major health concern, especially to people over 65 and those with underlying health conditions. Cases of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and the flu are expected to increase as the weather gets cooler.
COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for all Chicagoans aged six months and older.
Upon receiving an inventory of the new vaccines in October 2023, you will be able to find a CPS-managed clinic or School-Based Health Center near your child’s school.
NOTE: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has required CPS and all vaccine providers to stop the administration of the previous COVID-19 vaccines while awaiting the delivery of the newly approved COVID-19 vaccine formula. During this time, CPS will continue to offer other vaccines, including those required in the State of Illinois for school attendance.
In the meantime, we provide some important information about COVID-19 vaccines below.
Fall 2023 COVID-19 Vaccine Update
A new and updated COVID-19 vaccine will arrive in Chicago soon and is specifically effective against the latest COVID-19 variants (such as Omicron and BA.2.86, or Pirola).
Some people or those who have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19 may need additional doses of COVID-19 vaccines. For more guidance on how to stay up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccinations, visit the Chicago Department of Public Health's website.
While CPS will receive updated COVID-19 vaccines in the coming weeks, other providers may get the vaccine earlier. To find an updated vaccine, check chicago.gov/covid frequently and view the information below on vaccine availability. We will update the CPS community when CPS receives the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Other vaccines required for students will continue to be available through CPS.
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Vaccine Availability and Cost
- Uninsured Chicagoans will be able to access no-cost vaccines at some retail pharmacies that are participating in the Bridge Access Program. Visit vaccines.gov or vacunas.gov to find vaccines without insurance.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer no-cost vaccines. Find an FQHC at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov or call the city of Chicago's Hotline at 312-746-4835. Call the health center before visiting to ensure they have the updated vaccine.
- CDPH Immunization Clinics welcome walk-ins but registration is highly encouraged. Create an account and register for an appointment at getvaxchi.chicago.gov or by calling the clinic.
- People and families with private health insurance or Medicaid or Medicare coverage should go to a pharmacy or doctor’s office to get their updated COVID-19 vaccine, which your insurance company should cover. Visit vaccines.gov or vacunas.gov to find a vaccine provider near you.
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Additional COVID-19 Vaccination Opportunities
- Contact your child’s pediatrician or regular health care provider.
- Search Online: Find vaccination locations near you, including pharmacies.
- Text your ZIP code to 438829.
- Call 1-800-232-0233.
- Get vaccinated at home: Call the City of Chicago’s COVID-19 helpline at 312-746-4835
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Cook County Health Department Appointments
- Find vaccine locations: View vaccination opportunities at myshotcookcounty.com or vaccine.cookcountyil.gov.
- Schedule a vaccination by phone: Call Cook County Health at 312-864-0591.
- Schedule a vaccination by phone for a child under 5 years old: Call Cook County Health at 833-308-1988.