Illinois Faces Surge in Flu, COVID-19, and RSV Cases: What You Need to Know

Respiratory Illnesses on the Rise in Illinois

More people in Illinois are falling ill with respiratory infections. The state is currently seeing high levels of flu, RSV, and COVID-19, which have increased from moderate levels just last week.

Emergency room visits for acute respiratory issues are also up. In the week from December 29 to January 4, about 20% of these visits were for respiratory illnesses.

While this surge is typical for this time of year, there are also growing concerns about norovirus outbreaks, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

How to Stay Healthy

To protect yourself from these illnesses, the Illinois Department of Public Health recommends:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of illness. If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Get vaccinated. Vaccines can help prevent several respiratory diseases like flu and whooping cough.
• If you’re feeling unwell, stay home. It’s important to rest and not spread germs to others.
• Keep your distance from others when you’re sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue to prevent spreading germs.
• If needed, wear a mask around others to reduce the risk of transmission.

For more health resources, check out the Illinois Department of Public Health.