Rivers Casino Vaccine Mandate: Proof Of Vaccination Required As Of Jan. 3

Written By Joe Boozell on January 5, 2022

Proof of vaccination will now be required for entry into Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, as Cook County has implemented a COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

In light of the swift transmission of the Omicron variant in Illinois, health officials in Chicago and Cook County have implemented a vaccine mandate for indoor venues. Despite its perceived lower severity compared to previous strains, this measure has been deemed necessary to curb the spread of the virus.

Cook County requires individuals to be fully vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or one dose of Johnson & Johnson. At this time, there is no need for proof of vaccination at the entrance.

You can choose to show either your official vaccination card, a photo of the card, or a QR code obtained from the Illinois Department of Health’s official portal.

Due to the absence of a national vaccine policy, Rivers Casino is the sole casino in Cook County that mandates vaccinations for entry.

With that being said, additional important locations will need proof of immunization.

authority for vaccinations at Chicago venues and Illinois bookmakers

PointsBet has three physical betting locations in Cook County, including two Off-Track Betting (OTB) sites in Crestwood and Prospect Heights, as well as the main establishment at Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney.

Next, you must provide your vaccination records in order to enter.

In the meantime, the United States Center has been requiring vaccinations or negative tests all season. However, as of January 3, exemptions will no longer be accepted at the market and proof of vaccination will be required.

The UC’s website states that when it comes to exemptions, the following applies:

For more information, including detailed instructions for exceptions, please refer to the FAQ section on the City of Chicago’s Vaccine Requirement website.

In accordance with the guidance provided, the Guest Services team at the United Center will evaluate visitors who have medical or sincere religious exemptions on a case-by-case basis. These individuals must present documentation supporting their exemption, such as a letter from their healthcare provider, employer, or religious leader. Additionally, they must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to their visit to the United Center.

Proof of vaccination is also required to attend games at Wintrust Arena, the home of DePaul basketball.

It is uncertain if Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field will require COVID-19 vaccinations for the upcoming baseball season. Both stadiums did not implement vaccine mandates for the 2021 season, and since they are outdoor venues, the situation is different.

At Rivers Casino, are veils necessary?

Faces are required at all of these locations as well.

However, it should be noted that none of them currently have any potential restrictions. In the early stages of the pandemic, there were extended periods during which games were held at either 25% or 50% capacity.

This law does not apply if you are consistently eating or drinking.