PEORIA, Ill. – The Peoria City/County Health Department Tuesday announced three new cases of COVID-19 in the Tri-County area.
There are now 31 cases in Peoria County, 21 cases in Tazewell County, and 10 cases in Woodford County. This brings the total in the Tri-County area total to 62.
The total number of deaths remains at four, according to Health Administrator Monica Hendrickson.
Since Monday, three more COVID-19 patients have recovered in Peoria County. On Monday, eight were considered recovered, and there are now 11 considered recovered.
“Sixteen are at home self-isolating, and three are currently hospitalized,” Hendrickson said.
Fourteen ICU beds are in use for COVID-19 patients that are under investigation or confirmed to have the virus in Peoria.
“As well as 25 non-ICU beds in use for either confirmed cases or those under investigation for COVID-19,” Hendrickson said.
Peoria County Board Chairman Andrew Rand continued to stress the importance of continuing to follow social distancing measures, saying it’s the easiest way through the pandemic.
Four Points by Sheraton is close to opening 150 rooms that will be set aside for COVID-19 patients such as those who are homeless, live in a congregate living situation, or have a vulnerable family member at home.
Kate Green, Executive Director, Home for All Continuum of Care, said referrals to stay in the hotel will be made directly.
“Individuals will know through their healthcare professional, whether that’s a primary care physician, through a hospital discharge planner, or for those individuals experiencing homelessness they’ll be working through Heartland Health Services,” Green said.
The funding, according to Green, will come from Peoria County, and will be reimbursed through FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).
“As well as potential for coverage through funding that was secured through the Illinois Department of Human Services, which launched an emergency lodging grant,” Green said.
