Prairie State Wire

Illinois is maintaining a moderate level of respiratory virus activity, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported that COVID-19 hospitalizations have decreased by 16% in the week ending March 9, with the state classified at a low level for these hospitalizations. Two counties in Illinois remain at a medium level for COVID-19 hospitalizations.

"COVID-19 hospitalizations are continuing to decline in Illinois," said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. "However, respiratory virus season is still upon us as flu continues to circulate. It is important to keep in mind that flu season can last until May. Please continue to use all the tools available to keep yourself and your families safe and protected, especially those over 65, young children, and individuals who are immunocompromised."

The IDPH has supported the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' recommendation for a second dose of updated COVID-19 vaccines for individuals over 65 years old. Those who are immunosuppressed may receive additional doses two months after their previous dose. Preliminary data presented by the CDC indicated that 96% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in October and November 2023 had not received the updated vaccine.

The IDPH advises individuals with symptoms of respiratory illnesses such as coughing or fever to stay home and avoid contact with others. Mask-wearing is recommended when seeking medical care or visiting high-risk areas.

As RSV season concludes in Illinois, RSV vaccines during pregnancy are no longer necessary; however, shots providing immunity for infants and young children remain available until season's end. Older adults can also receive their RSV vaccine post-season.

To enhance public awareness, IDPH launched an Infectious Respiratory Disease Surveillance Dashboard updated weekly. Households across the U.S. can access four free at-home tests via COVID.gov, while high-risk settings have access to a triple-test swab covering Flu/RSV/COVID-19 without cost.

Uninsured or under-insured residents benefit from the CDC's Bridge Access Program offering COVID-19 vaccines at no charge. The Vaccines for Children Program provides recommended vaccines including nirsevimab for RSV protection.

For treatment options, symptomatic residents can utilize telehealth services through SIU School of Medicine’s COVID Test to Treat services or contact NIH’s Test to Treat line.

Further resources on masks, treatments, vaccines, and testing nationwide can be found at https://www.covid.gov/.