Cook County Health Online Q&A Focuses On Vaccine Misinformation

COOK COUNTY, IL — In an effort to correct vaccination misinformation, the Cook County Department of Public Health announced July dates for its online “Ask the Doctor” forums. The question-and-answer sessions will allow residents to ask community doctors anything they’d like to know about COVID-19 and back-to-school vaccinations.

“These events provide an opportunity for residents to ask doctors the questions that may be preventing them from getting vaccinated. It is important that residents hear firsthand from physicians that the vaccine is safe and effective.” said Dr. Rachel Rubin, the co-lead and senior medical officer for the Cook County Department of Public Health. “Our goal is to answer questions, address any misinformation or confusion, and provide the information people need to make an informed decision.”

An online forum in English is planned for 7 p.m. July 28. July 28. Dr. Kerri Lockhart will discuss child vaccinations and back-to-school guidance. Dr. Lockhart is the assistant professor of pediatrics and diversity, equity and inclusion committee chair for the pediatric department at Rush Pediatric Primary Care Center and Rush University Medical Center.

Spanish-language forums are planned for 7 p.m. July 21 and 6 p.m. July 22. The online events will be broadcast on the CCDPH Facebook page and the CCDPH YouTube
channel. Dates for August and September “Ask the Doctor” events will be announced later.