Flu activity in suburban Cook County, including Park Forest, has risen from high to very high, prompting public health officials to renew calls for preventive measures as respiratory illnesses spread this winter.
The Cook County Department of Public Health reports rapidly increasing flu cases for the week ending Dec. 27, 2025. Emergency room visits for flu now exceed last year’s peak. Hospital and intensive care admissions for flu and COVID-19 are also rising sharply.
RSV activity has risen from low to moderate. COVID-19 cases remain low but are increasing, according to health officials.
In Park Forest, Community Health Coordinator Adina McCollough urged residents to stay vigilant by getting vaccinated and using preventive measures now to help reduce the spread of illness.
“Flu levels are rising faster than last season, reminding us prevention is key,” McCollough said. “Stay up to date on vaccines, wash hands regularly, and cover coughs to reduce illness spread.”
McCollough stressed the importance of staying home when sick.
“If you’re sick, rest and avoid others until you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours, and your symptoms improve,” she said. “This protects seniors, young children, and those with health conditions.”
The Cook County Department of Public Health encourages residents to get all recommended respiratory virus vaccines and practice frequent handwashing. Officials stress that getting vaccinated now is one of the most effective ways to reduce severe illness and hospitalization this season.
To increase access, free vaccinations are available on rotating Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at five suburban Cook County locations through March 28, with no appointment required.
Vaccines are available Jan. 10 at Cottage Grove Health Center, 1645 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Ford Heights, and Jan. 17 at Robbins Health Center, 13450 S. Kedzie Ave., Robbins.
Residents, regardless of immigration status or insurance, can receive immunizations—just bring identification and insurance cards if available. Find the full vaccination clinic schedule from the health department.