Cook County Department of Public Health

You may be hearing more about hantavirus online. But what’s the risk in Cook County? Dr. Kiran Joshi shares what residents should know right now, including how hantavirus spreads, symptoms, and why the current risk in Illinois remains low. Learn more: ow.ly/ji7M50Z0muo

If someone may be overdosing, don’t hesitate to administer naloxone & call 9-1-1. Tell the dispatcher, ""Someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally.” Illinois’ Good Samaritan Law protects you & the person experiencing an overdose. Get free naloxone:ow.ly/HHIy50YZOt0

Allergy season is in full swing! Make sure your kids are prepared for asthma and allergies this summer. CCDPH provides schools in suburban Cook County with standing prescriptions for EpiPens and inhalers. Talk to school administration and learn more here: ow.ly/lYqT50YZ3G1

CCDPH's Michele Spikes-Cain, along with representatives from Cook County Health, CountyCare, and the Cook County Health Board of Directors, were joined by Senator Dick Durbin to discuss maternal health care, impending Medicaid cuts and what those on the frontlines are seeing.

On this Mother's Day, we're delighted to share the Daily Herald's story featuring Joy Helga Nassuuna and her newborn. Both are getting regular home visits from their public health nurse as part of our new Healthy Beginnings program. Learn more: ow.ly/ULuw50YXg0t.

Las mujeres pueden obtener prevención, pruebas y tratamiento del VIH en Cook County Health. Mantente protegida. Hazte la prueba. Aprende más: ow.ly/qXyl50YWLv1

CCDPH connected with new and expecting parents at the United Palatine Coalition's 4th Annual Wellness Resource Fair. It was a great opportunity to discuss our Healthy Beginnings program, which provides families with in-home support through a baby’s first year.

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health or substance use challenges, or just need someone to talk to, you're not alone. Call, text or chat counselors at the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support. Learn more: ow.ly/Luvt50YUL32

Parents, join us for a free presentation on vaping and how it’s impacting youth. Learn what’s in e-cigarettes, how they’re marketed to young people, signs to look out for, and how to talk with your child and support them. Register here: ow.ly/Mffh50YUAR6

Registration is open for the Spring 2026 Data Ambassador Workshop! Join us Tuesday, May 12 from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM at the Moraine Valley Business and Conference Center (9000 W College Parkway, Palos Hills). Register now: ow.ly/RfvO50YT04T

Across most of the country, including Cook County, CDC data show that weekly ER visits for tick bites are at their highest levels for this time of year since 2017. Check out these 5 ways to prevent tick bites and the diseases they carry, and learn more at avoidtickscookcounty.com

Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t affecting your health. Left untreated, infections can lead to serious, long-term complications. Testing helps catch infections early so you can get treated. Learn more: ow.ly/KLx350YR7X3

Stay connected to what matters for your health and your community. Get the information you need, when you need it, delivered straight to your inbox or phone. Sign up today: ow.ly/FLa650YQCjo

Misinformation spreads fast. Knowing how to spot it early can help stop it in its tracks. Protect yourself, your family, and your community by staying informed.

Naloxone saves lives. Having naloxone on hand means you can act quickly in an overdose and give someone a second chance to get help and recover. Learn how to recognize an overdose and where to get naloxone in your community: GetNaloxoneCookCounty.com

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and support is available. If you or someone you know needs support, connect with NAMI Chicago’s Helpline for free, confidential help. Visit namichicago.org/helpline or call/text “HELPLINE” to 833-NAMI-CHI

Parents, join us on May 6 at the Oak Lawn Public Library for a free presentation on vaping and how it’s impacting youth. Learn what’s in e-cigarettes, how they’re marketed to young people, signs to look out for, and how to support your child. Register: ow.ly/ZXKT50YMJaQ

Hear from our COO, Dr. Kiran Joshi, in the Sun-Times today, highlighting how to spot health misinformation that's fueling a rise in disease outbreaks: ow.ly/l13O50YMIqO

CCDPH and Active Transportation Alliance are offering free technical assistance to help municipalities apply for state funding for walking, biking, and trail improvements through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. Learn more: ow.ly/kpRv50YMHXu

Join us today at 11 AM for a Facebook Live event during Black Maternal Health Week. Hear from maternal and child health experts on care, support, and resources for families in suburban Cook County. Learn more: ow.ly/bz1R50YLaCE