Public Health Guidance
The COVID-19 national and public health emergencies ended on May 11, 2023. CDPH continues to monitor and respond to COVID-19 and take the steps needed to protect our city. Chicagoans should continue to be aware of COVID-19 and remember the steps they can take to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities.
Vaccination
- COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and widely available across Illinois. Eligible Chicagoans ages six months and older should be vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible to protect themselves against severe outcomes – like hospitalization or death.
- The FDA and CDC took important action to simplify the vaccination schedule for most individuals. Learn more here.
- Regardless of vaccination status, if you have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested and avoid public spaces except to get medical care.
Ventilation
- Improved ventilation helps to reduce the levels of infectious particles in the air.
- Follow these tips to make the air in your home safer during Covid-19
Congregate Settings, Schools and Early Childcare
- To learn more about recommended prevention steps for congregate settings, schools and early childcare centers, visit the CDC at: CDC COVID Guidance for Specific Settings
Masks
- The City of Chicago has removed the mask and vaccine requirements for most public spaces.
- Healthcare settings should encourage masking, at a minimum, for clinical encounters including when patient or provider requests use of a mask, if patients or providers are immunocompromised, and if patients have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection (cough, runny nose, fever, etc).
- Learn more about when to wear a mask to protect yourself and others at:
Treatments
- Effective treatments for COVID-19 are available. If you test positive for COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider, health department, or community health center to learn about treatment options. Treatment must be started within 5–7 days of developing symptoms to be effective.
Communication Resources
![Card Image](/content/dam/city/sites/covid/reopen-businesses-portal/resources-card.png)
The City of Chicago has compiled health-focused posters for download and use.
Employee Resources
![Card Image](/content/dam/city/sites/covid/reopen-businesses-portal/employee-card.png)
Refer to this page for employee-specific resources on worker protections and labor laws.
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