CHICAGO, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Public Health says the state is seeing high levels of respiratory illnesses in the new year, with flu season already underway.
The IDPH says Tazewell and Peoria counties are seeing high admissions for COVID-19, while Woodford County admissions are at medium level. Over half of the counties in Illinois are at an elevated level.
“The winter holiday season typically results in an increase in seasonal respiratory viruses, and we are seeing that again this year, with certain areas of Illinois feeling increased hospital strain, said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.
Vohra is encouraging Illinois residents, especially those vulnerable to serious illnesses, to stay informed about respiratory illnesses in their area and to use all the tools available to keep themselves and their families safe.
“These tools include washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, improving indoor air ventilation, and wearing a mask in crowded areas. And it’s not too late to get vaccinated for all the shots for which you are eligible. Receiving immunizations for COVID-19, flu, RSV, as well as pneumonia helps prevent serious illness and hospitalizations,” Vohra said.
18 Illinois counties are currently at a high level for COVID-19 hospitalizations and 43 are at medium level. Flu activity has also surged to pre-COVID-19 levels. RSV has stabilized, though a slight increase in RSV admissions in infants occurred this past week.
The IDPH confirms two pediatric deaths, and is investigating a third potential death, due to the flu.
Learn more about respiratory illnesses from the Illinois Department of Public Health HERE.
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