The Illinois National Guard’s latest mission: Help vaccinate Cook County from COVID-19 - Chicago Tribune

After just a few days of helping to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine at a Cook County health center, 2nd Lt.

He acknowledges their surprise with a masked smile, explaining that the Guard recently has been activated to speed up the state’s vaccination program.

Villafuerte’s effort shows the delicate dance the Illinois National Guard must perform.

As members of the Illinois National Guard, we’re just here to help.”.

More than 200 Guard members have been activated so far, and the governor plans to activate about 400 total to all regions of the state.

At Cook County Health’s North Riverside Health Center, Guard members and the site’s regular staff moved patients quickly through the vaccination process Friday.

The 18 Guard members have helped Cook County health staff double the number of vaccinations it can administer each day, said Dr.

“With their military background and organization, they (the Guard members) are bringing efficiencies and teamwork,” Vittum said.

The Illinois National Guard has played in key role in implementing the state’s COVID-19 response since the earliest days of the pandemic

“I’m grateful to be here,” said Mia Mapa of Aurora, an EMT in the National Guard and a student at Northern Illinois University