Free Flu Shot Event in Chicago’s Pilsen Neighborhood on September 11

On Friday, September 11, American Lung Association volunteer medical spokesperson Dr. Juanita Mora will host a free flu shot clinic in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago to help families prepare for flu season. Media are invited to attend the event and interview Dr. Mora about the importance of flu vaccination and protecting communities from seasonal flu.

WHO:

• Juanita Mora, MD, volunteer medical spokesperson of the American Lung Association, physician and CEO of the Chicago Allergy Center
• Linda Huag, Walgreens pharmacist

WHAT:

• An all-day event to offer free flu shots to Pilsen community members to help protect them from serious illness from influenza (the flu).
• Flu shots will be offered at no cost for anyone over the age of three.
• Walgreens pharmacists will be on-site throughout the day to administer vaccinations and answer questions about flu prevention and seasonal respiratory health. These experts can provide additional guidance on which vaccines are right for each individual this season.

• Media will have opportunities to interview Dr. Juanita Mora, Linda Huag, Walgreens pharmacist, and community members participating in the clinic.

WHEN: Friday, September 11 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., and then from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

WHERE: Walgreens parking lot, 1931 W Cermak Rd. Chicago, IL 60608

WHY:

• According to the Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network, an estimated 380,000 to 390,000 children and adults were hospitalized during the 2025-2026 influenza season (October 1, 2025, to June 13, 2026). 
• In fact, there were over 1,000 hospitalizations in Chicago for the flu reported in 2024-2025 season alone according to CDPH.  
• Increasing flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to help reduce severe illness, hospitalizations and strain on local healthcare systems during respiratory virus season.
• The flu is a serious respiratory illness easily spread from person to person. While anyone can get the flu, adults age 65 and older, people who are pregnant, young children and those with certain chronic health conditions are at greater risk for severe illness, complications, hospitalization, and even death. Chronic health conditions include lung diseases such as asthma and COPD, as well as heart disease and diabetes.
• Flu vaccination is the best way to help protect against the flu and severe illness. Other ways to help protect yourself and others from the flu include washing your hands often, staying home if you are sick and getting tested if you have symptoms of the flu.