Due To An Increase In COVID Cases, Illinois Officials Advise Wearing a Mask.

(CTN News) – According to recent data from the Illinois COVID Department of Public Health (IDPH), more than half of the counties in Illinois, including Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle, are currently experiencing a medium or high level of COVID-19 hospitalizations.

The IDPH stated in a news release that the number of counties classified as having a high level of hospitalizations has doubled from five to ten in the central region of the state.

This classification indicates that these counties have witnessed over 20 COVID-19 hospitalizations per 100,000 population in the past week.

Additionally, 41 counties are categorized as having a medium level of hospitalizations, with between 10 and 20 COVID-19 hospitalizations per 100,000 population during the same period.

In the week ending on December 2, Illinois reported over 1,200 new COVID-19 hospitalizations, marking a 22% increase compared to the previous week.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has taken swift action in response to the alarming surge in respiratory viruses by issuing a health alert.

This advisory urges hospitals, long-term care facilities, and local health departments to implement crucial “mitigation measures” to combat the spread of these viruses. These measures include the mandatory use of masks and rigorous screening protocols.

Dr. Sameer Vohra, the esteemed Director of IDPH, emphasized the urgency of these precautions. With the concerning increase in respiratory viruses, healthcare facilities must prioritize the safety of their patients, staff, and visitors.

By implementing these mitigation measures, healthcare facilities can effectively prevent the transmission of these viruses and protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm.

One of the primary reasons for this heightened concern is the significant rise in hospitalizations for flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Of particular concern is the impact on pediatric hospitalizations for RSV, which has seen a notable surge.

This surge in hospitalizations underscores the severity of the situation and the urgent need for healthcare facilities to take immediate action.

By issuing this health alert, the IDPH aims to raise awareness among healthcare providers and facilities about the gravity of the situation.

It serves as a call to action, urging them to implement the recommended mitigation measures promptly. These measures, such as masking and screening, are proven strategies to curb the spread of respiratory viruses and protect the health and well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.

In conclusion, the IDPH’s response to the surge in respiratory viruses has been swift and proactive. By issuing a health alert and advising healthcare facilities to implement mitigation measures, they are taking necessary steps to prevent the further spread of these viruses.

The rise in hospitalizations for flu and RSV, particularly among pediatric patients, highlights the urgency of these measures. Healthcare facilities must prioritize the safety of their patients, staff, and visitors by adhering to these guidelines and safeguarding against the transmission of respiratory viruses.

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