ServicesChildhood Immunizations

The Childhood Immunizations program provides low-cost routine childhood vaccines for infants and children through 18 years. Our experienced and caring nurses welcome the opportunity to assist parents and children through this important preventive health service.

Now offering Moderna 2025-2026 Covid-19 vaccines to children age 6 months through 18 years old only. Appointments are required.

Record Request

If you need a copy of your child’s immunization record, please go the link below. You will need to complete the release form and send to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

https://idphportal.illinois.gov/s

ImmunizationRecordsReleaseAuthorization_re.pdf (illinois.gov)

Fees and Eligibility

DCHD accepts most PPO insurance plans. Low-cost vaccines are available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program for a child, 18 years or younger, that does not have private insurance that will pay for vaccine. The federal guidelines define eligibility as a child who is:

1. American Indian or Alaska native
2. Enrolled in Medicaid
3. Has no health insurance:
   • Children who have private health insurance but the coverage does not include vaccines.
   • Children whose insurance covers only selected vaccines (VFC-eligible for non-covered vaccines only).
   • Children whose insurance caps vaccine coverage at a certain amount. Once that is reached, these children are categorized as uninsured.

Effective 01/04/2024, a credit card fee of 2.25% will be applied to all debit and credit card transactions. A minimum of $1.00 will be applied.

Additional Childhood Immunizations Resources

Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program

Immunization Action Coalition

Current Childhood Immunization Schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) Can I just walk in for shots?

A) Services by appointment are preferred so that we can be prepared for your child’s visit; however, we attempt to accept walk-ins if time allows.

Q) Why does my baby need all these shots?

A) To prevent illnesses that can be serious.

Q) What if I don’t want all the shots?

A) We will be glad to speak with you about your concerns and your child’s needs, and work out an acceptable plan. In addition, you can also seek advice from your child’s primary care provider.

Q) Can you tell the school I don’t want shots for my child?

A) No, we do not have authority to exempt your child from immunization requirements or provide waivers for children.  You should address your concerns with your child’s school.

Q) Why do I have to give you my child’s record before you will give the shots? I know my child is up to date.

A) In order to provide the best service to you and your child, it is necessary for us to see the record and make a determination of your child’s needs. This prevents unnecessary shots and costs. You can have your child’s primary care provider or school fax us the record at 815-748-2440. When we have the record, we will be glad to discuss your child’s needs and make an appointment if needed.

Q) Do your vaccines have mercury or thimerosal in them?

A) While most vaccines are free from these preservatives, there are a few that are exempt from the Mercury-Free Act. Please call 815-748-2460 if you would like to ask about a specific vaccine.