Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has reported an increase in respiratory illnesses across the state, raising the overall activity level from Moderate to High. This change is attributed to a rise in emergency department visits and hospital admissions due to influenza.

While COVID-19 and RSV cases have shown a decline, flu cases are on the rise. Data for the week ending January 25 indicates that hospital admissions for flu are three times higher than those for COVID-19, with flu accounting for 4.6% of admissions compared to 1.6% for COVID-19 and 0.7% for RSV.

Emergency department visits also reflect this trend, with nearly 20% related to acute respiratory illnesses. Among these visits, 7.8% were due to flu, while COVID-19 and RSV accounted for 1.6% and 0.7%, respectively.

“IDPH continues to closely monitor data on seasonal viruses during this respiratory season,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. He advises those over 65, very young children, individuals with chronic diseases, and immunocompromised individuals to take precautions against exposure and seek treatment promptly if symptoms develop.

The CDC's classification system places the state's current respiratory activity at High, following a brief dip in January. The system ranges from Minimal to Very High based on data from emergency department visits.

Public health officials urge unvaccinated individuals that it is not too late to receive vaccinations, which take about two weeks to become fully effective. Vaccinations can offer protection through the remainder of the cold and flu season.

Director Vohra recommends testing and early treatment for anyone experiencing symptoms like fever or cough, especially those at risk of serious illness or spreading it to others. Isolation or mask-wearing is advised for those who are ill.

Tragically, IDPH reports five pediatric deaths this season: five from flu, three from RSV, and one involving both COVID-19 and RSV. These fatalities underscore the importance of vaccinations for children against preventable illnesses.

New FAQ documents regarding vaccinations and treatments are available on IDPH’s website. Additionally, the CDC offers a Respiratory Illness Data Channel with county-specific information useful for travelers.

Recent approvals by the FDA and CDC include new vaccines for COVID-19 and flu; RSV vaccine recommendations have been updated as well. The new vaccines are recommended broadly across age groups: everyone over six months old should receive COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots; RSV vaccines are suggested for people aged 75 years or older and those between 60–74 at risk of severe illness.

COVID-19 treatments must be prescribed within five to seven days after symptom onset, particularly recommended for high-risk groups like those over 65 years old. Free antiviral options may be accessible through specific programs in Illinois.

Flu antivirals are most effective within two days of symptom onset; they require a prescription as well. At-risk groups such as older adults or pregnant women should consult healthcare providers quickly if they feel ill.

Free COVID-19 testing locations can be found using the federal ICATT program’s locator tool online.

Vaccines are widely available at pharmacies, hospitals, community health clinics; appointments can be made online at major pharmacy chains.

For more information on finding nearby vaccine providers or assistance programs like Vaccines for Children or options through local health departments or free clinics, visit www.vaccines.gov or use IDPH’s Vaccine Locator Dashboard.