Chicago Department of Public Health Weekly Media Brief, 10/31/2025

Jump Ahead

• Mpox Update
• City College Vaccine Clinics
• Englewood Baby Shower Recap
• Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Chicago Mpox Update, Case Rates Improving

The number of new mpox cases reported in Chicago last week was the lowest weekly total reported to CDPH since mid-August and marks four consecutive weeks of a decline in new cases. Between October 12 18, there were seven new mpox cases reported in Chicago, down from 13 the previous week, 14 the week before that, and 15 at the end of September.

This trend is encouraging, but CDPH still urges anyone who may be in a vulnerable group to take necessary care to avoid mpox, including vaccination.

"We are seeing real progress against mpox, and that is thanks to the response from a community committed to the challenge of fighting this outbreak," said CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo 'Simbo' Ige, MD, MS, MPH. "I am proud of the many CDPH staff who have worked tirelessly to get the word out, secure vaccines, and host vaccination clinics across the city. Their dedication, and the community partnerships we've built, have been central to the progress made against this outbreak. We must be mindful not to let our guard down, as this virus has shown how tough and resilient it is, but so are Chicagoans. Our continued vigilance is the key to continued progress."

From June 1-Oct. 18, 2025, 141 cases of mpox have been reported to CDPH.

CDPH is co-sponsoring several mpox vaccination events throughout November, including:

• Sunday, November 9 (1-4 pm) and Monday, November 10 (6-9 pm): Touche Bar, 6412 N. Clark St.
• Wednesdays, November 5, 12, 19, and 26 (5:30-7:30 pm): Steamworks Baths, 3246 N. Halsted St.

Vaccination is especially encouraged for sexually active gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men, who have been most affected by this mpox outbreak. The mpox vaccine is also available at CDPH's Sexual Health Clinics in Lakeview, Roseland, and Austin.

Upcoming City College Vaccine Events

Don't Miss Out!

CDPH continues its collaboration with City College with the next vaccination event being held this Saturday, November 1 at Harry S. Truman College (1145 W. Wilson Ave) from 9 am to 1 pm for no-cost 2024-2025 COVID-19 and flu vaccines for the whole family. Everyone ages 6 months and over are recommended to get vaccinated!

Spanish-language radio station WRLL will be broadcasting live on-site. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is encouraged. Register on the CDPH GetVaxChi website.

Why get vaccinated now? It's your #1 defense against getting sidelined this season. Whether it's holiday gatherings, football games, or quality time with loved ones, don't let preventable illness keep you from the moments that matter.

Plus, we're offering school-age physicals and pediatric vaccines at all City College locations, so you can check everything off your list in one visit.

See the full calendar of CDPH vaccine clinics to find one near you!

Englewood Community Baby Shower Recap

Over 200 pregnant and parenting families attended a community baby shower on Saturday, October 25, hosted by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Englewood police district.

More than 10 community organizations were on hand to provide resources for parenting, as well as maternal, infant, and mental health. Attendees took part in educational workshops on parental stress, postpartum depression, and the benefits of having a doula. Safe sleep demonstrations were also provided throughout the event in English and Spanish.

Those who attended the event received essential baby items, breast pumps, sleep sacks, and maternity clothing, and via a raffle they had the opportunity to receive portable cribs, strollers, and care packages from Walgreens.

For more information on safe sleep, visit CDPH's Infant Sleep Safety website and Family Connects Chicago.

Have a Happy and Healthy Halloween!

Happy Halloween! The Chicago Department of Public Health wishes you a spooky, safe, and fun holiday. Before you head out for trick-or-treating, here are a few tips to keep your night from becoming too frightening:

• Trick-or-treaters who are feeling ill should get tested and stay home, if sick.
• If you're handing out candy, frequently wash your hands.
• Make sure your kids are wearing flame resistant costumes.
• Wear costumes that won't obstruct your view or ability to walk.
• Inspect trick or treat candy before eating it.
• If you have a food allergy, be careful with food and candy you take from others.
• Parents of young children should prevent them from having candy that can be a choking hazard.

For more information and tips for a safe and fun Halloween, visit the Illinois Poison Center website.

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