Prairie State Wire

As colder temperatures settle in Illinois, the state's Department of Public Health (IDPH) urges residents to prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season. Officials recommend vaccinations against flu, COVID-19, and RSV as viral activity is expected to rise with holiday gatherings.

The IDPH reports a notable increase in whooping cough cases this year. October saw 408 reported cases, more than double from the previous year, marking the highest monthly total in two decades. Over 1,900 confirmed and probable cases have been recorded statewide so far in 2024, the highest since 2012. This trend follows a national pattern after a significant drop during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Sameer Vohra, IDPH Director, stated: “I am pleased to report that the overall respiratory illness level in Illinois remains low.” He added that cold weather is likely to lead to increased illness levels and urged eligible individuals to receive updated vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Vaccinations are particularly important for those over 65 or with chronic conditions.

Addressing the pertussis spike, Dr. Vohra said: “The post-pandemic rise in pertussis cases is a cause for concern.” He encouraged consultations with healthcare providers regarding vaccination updates.

In response to rising pertussis cases, IDPH has issued health alerts to local health departments and schools urging vigilance and timely reporting of cases.

COVID-19 hospital admissions remain stable at 0.7%. The department's website offers new FAQs on vaccinations and seasonal illness management. A CDC Respiratory Illness Data Channel provides nationwide information useful for travelers.

New vaccines approved by the FDA and CDC are recommended for various age groups: everyone over six months should receive COVID-19 and flu shots; those over 75 should consider RSV vaccination unless previously vaccinated last winter. Pregnant individuals late in their term are advised on RSV vaccines for newborn protection.

Public health officials emphasize staying home when sick as an effective way to reduce virus transmission. Individuals with symptoms like coughing or fever should self-isolate or wear masks if unable to do so.

Timely antiviral treatments are available for COVID-19 and flu but require quick initiation following symptom onset. Treatments must be prescribed within specific time frames post-symptom appearance—5–7 days for COVID-19 and within 48 hours for flu—for effectiveness.

Free COVID-19 testing sites can be located through federal programs like ICATT, while free tests can be ordered online via covidtests.gov.

Vaccines are accessible at pharmacies, hospitals, community clinics, and major pharmacy chains offer online appointment scheduling. Uninsured adults can find options through local health departments or community health centers; children under 18 may access no-cost vaccines through IDPH's Vaccines for Children Program.