DuPage County’s COVID-19 community transmission is now at Substantial level per Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The recent rise in cases and hospitalizations is likely attributed to the more contagious Delta variant which has now become the more predominant variant across the country. Still, vaccines continue to be the best form of protection against COVID-19, including the Delta variant and help prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death. 

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) strongly endorses the recently updated CDC masking guidance which recommends everyone, including fully vaccinated individuals, wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas with substantial and high transmission. This recommendation includes employers, retailers, restaurants/bars, fitness/recreational centers, libraries, governmental entities, healthcare facilities, and other public venues. 

Additionally, CDC is also recommending universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors in K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. As a result, DCHD released an updated statement about COVID-19 Prevention Strategies in Schools. School leaders and local school districts hold the ultimate authority to develop plans to return to school and ensure a safe school environment. 

COVID-19 vaccines are free and available to anyone 12 years and older. There are now many locations available to get your COVID-19 vaccine in DuPage County. To find a COVID-19 vaccine provider near you, visit HERE.

The DuPage County Health Department also offers COVID-19 vaccinations on a walk-in basis in Wheaton, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit the DCHD website.

The Care Van will make stops in various locations across DuPage County during the month of August. Those in need of the COVID-19 vaccine are able to walk up to the Care Van and receive the vaccination from a Health Department nurse. The clinic is free, and open to all people 12 years or older, including those who do not have health insurance or legal immigration status. The Care Van will offer either the Pfizer vaccine which requires two doses 21 days apart or the one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

For the full listing of the locations the Care Van will be during the week of August 2-7, 2021, visit HERE.

DuPage County residents who are homebound or who cannot safely leave their residence to visit a vaccination clinic are eligible to be vaccinated through the DuPage County Health Department's homebound vaccination program and should register here or call the Health Department at (630) 682-7400 for assistance.