Ensuring a Safe Environment for All

Childhood Vaccinations in the Northwest Chicago Suburbs

At Associates in Pediatrics, we believe vaccination is one of the most important things a parent can do to protect their child’s health – and the health of the community around them. We follow the immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the CDC, and we’ve been having these conversations with families across Elgin, Streamwood, Algonquin, and the northwest suburbs for more than 40 years.

our vaccination policy

As pediatric healthcare providers, ensuring a safe environment for every child in our practice is our highest priority. Associates in Pediatrics requires all children in our practice to be up to date with vaccines by age 2. Children who are older and joining our practice will be expected to begin catching up on required vaccines for their age group.

We will no longer accept new patients who choose not to vaccinate their children. While we strongly encourage following the full CDC and AAP schedule, parents have some flexibility in choosing an alternate schedule. We are always happy to discuss your questions at any visit.

Important Update

JANUARY 2026

You may be seeing headlines about proposed changes to the federal childhood vaccine schedule. At Associates in Pediatrics, our recommendations have not changed. We continue to stand by the AAP guidelines, which are based on extensive ongoing scientific evidence. Here’s what families should know:

 

  • Access has not changed – families can still receive the full range of recommended childhood vaccines
  • Vaccines continue to be covered by private insurance, Medicaid, and the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program
  • The science has not changed – research confirms the childhood vaccine schedule is safe and effective
  • Illinois guidance has not changed – our recommendations remain evidence-based

The Childhood Vaccine Schedule

 

  • Hepatitis B – beginning at birth
  • DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) – beginning at 2 months
  • Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) – beginning at 2 months
  • Polio (IPV) – beginning at 2 months
  • Pneumococcal (PCV) – beginning at 2 months
  • Rotavirus – beginning at 2 months
  • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) – beginning at 12 months
  • Varicella (chickenpox) – beginning at 12 months
  • Annual influenza vaccine – beginning at 6 months

Note: The Covid, Flu, Hepatitis A, and HPV vaccines are not among our required vaccines but are strongly recommended per AAP guidelines.

    Vaccinations

    frequently asked questions

    Does my child need the flu vaccine every year?

    Yes. The flu vaccine is reformulated annually and we recommend it for all children 6 months and older every year.

    Can my child receive multiple vaccines in one visit?

    Yes, and it’s safe. A child’s immune system is fully capable of handling several vaccines at once, and combination shots reduce the number of injections needed overall.

    What if my child missed a vaccine?

    It’s not too late. We can create a catch-up schedule tailored to your child’s age and history. Call our office and we’ll help you get back on track.

    Are there side effects after vaccines?

    Mild side effects like soreness, low-grade fever, or fussiness are common and usually resolve within a day or two. Serious reactions are rare. Our providers will review what to watch for after each vaccine.

    Schedule Your Child’s Immunizations

    KEEP YOUR CHILD PROTECTED

    Whether your child is due for routine immunizations, school-required vaccines, or a catch-up schedule, our experienced pediatric team is here to help. Contact Associates in Pediatrics today to schedule an appointment and keep your child healthy, protected, and up to date with recommended immunizations.

    View Our Locations

    Caring for northern Illinois families for over 40 years

    Call for Appointments

    847.742.6888

    Office Hours

    Monday - Friday: 8 am - 5 pm
    (Closed for lunch 12 - 1:30pm)

    Saturday: 8 am - 12 pm

    Sunday: Closed

    ELGIN SUMMIT STREET

    1015 Summit St
    Elgin, IL 60120

    ELGIN RANDALL ROAD

    1530 N Randall Rd.
    Elgin, IL 60123

    STREAMWOOD

    1020 E Schaumburg Rd. Streamwood, IL 60107

    ALGONQUIN

    2971 Algonquin Rd. Ste 105
    Algonquin, IL 60102

    AFTER HOURS

    Call 847.742.6888 to reach our answering service. A provider will be paged to assist you. A $25 after-hours fee applies.

    For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.