CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Illinois Department of Public Health has updated its vaccine verification portal days before Chicago and Cook County require proof at bars, restaurants and gyms.
Those who've gotten the shots can download a QR code to show at the door of establishments instead of carrying around their vaccination card. The state department of public health said in order to get the SMART health card, residents have to verify their identity to see their immunization history as a way to protect the confidential information.
"As a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep people safer, some businesses, events, organizations, and others are opting to require proof of vaccination before entering," said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike in a statement.
"We've seen multiple surges of COVID-19 and more and more people are making the choice to get vaccinated. The ability to download a QR code will help residents confirm their vaccination status when requested."
Those with common names will have to take extra steps to prove they are who they claim to be.
Businesses can download a free app from the Commons Project that allows them to verify if the card is legitimate. A spokeswoman for IDPH told WBBM about 279,000 people have registered in the state's Vax Verify system.
