October is the “sweet spot” for getting flu shots, and for many people it can be convenient to combine their flu and updated COVID vaccines into one appointment.

For those who are uninsured or under-insured, CDPH will have vaccine at its three CDPH Immunization Clinics. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is highly encouraged. Create an account and register for an appointment at https://getvaxchi.chicago.gov or by calling the clinic. Call ahead to make sure COVID-19 vaccine doses have arrived.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the Food and Drug Administration has ended a program that provided free COVID-19 vaccines in August of 2024. Because of that, some are warned to double-check your insurance before getting the shot.