This influenza season, Ascension Illinois is bringing immunization care to many of the communities it serves in Chicago and the northwest suburbs through an assortment of free partnership clinics in collaboration with different organizations. These clinics will be hosted at institutions including libraries, schools, churches, parks, senior centers and civic buildings.

The hospital system is offering 31 clinics in total in September and October in the following communities:

• Barrington
• Bartlett
• Chicago
• Des Plaines
• Elgin
• Elk Grove Village
• Hanover Park
• Hoffman Estates
• Palatine
• Schaumburg

To see all of our free clinic locations and times, and to find the one that is best for you, visit our community calendar here.

"During this time of year, our team ensures that we are coordinating with our community partners to protect some of the most vulnerable patient populations from the flu," said Ascension Illinois Community Health Director Maria Aurora Diaz. "It is imperative that those who are able, take the steps to protect themselves, their family, and their community from influenza."

Influenza can affect all populations, but the highest risk of complications typically occur among pregnant women, children under five years of age, the elderly and individuals with chronic medical conditions. Because of their close proximity to the virus, healthcare workers are also at a higher risk. Each year the influenza virus comes in different forms, and the seasonal flu immunization is updated to better match the flu virus that is expected to be most common. The flu shot typically protects against several forms of the virus, and it's recommended that everyone six months or older receive the flu shot annually.

A number of additional precautions can be taken to ensure someone avoids contracting the flu, including avoiding close contact with those who are sick and washing your hands regularly. Physicians also recommend getting plenty of sleep and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.