CHICAGO, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Public Health’s projected winter increase in COVID-19 cases is coming to pass.
The state says 74 of the state’s 102 counties are now at some form of elevated risk of spreading the virus.
Peoria and Tazewell Counties are now at “high” spread levels for the first time in months, while Woodford County is at a medium spread level.
The state says 21,404 new cases were reported statewide in the last week, higher than a week ago.
State Public Health Director, Doctor Sameer Vohra, says the rise is “significant.”
“Preventative measures include COVID-19 testing, especially if visiting someone at risk for severe disease; enhanced ventilation; good hand hygiene; staying home and seeking treatment if sick; and getting up to date with the COVID-19 bivalent booster and the flu shot,” Vohra said, in a news release. “A high-quality mask or respirator is also recommended and will protect you from COVID-19, the flu and other respiratory viruses. Our hope is for Illinoisians across our state to have a happy and healthy holiday season.”
Vohra says with flu cases on the rise and earlier than normal, hospitals are seeing increased visits.
