The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported an increase in hospitalizations for COVID-19, the flu, and RSV during the week ending December 14, according to its Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard.
As families prepared for the upcoming holiday celebrations, Illinois health authorities issued a warning on Monday regarding the rise in respiratory diseases.
The IDPH’s Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard shows that hospitalizations for COVID-19, the flu, and RSV have increased for the week ending December 14. Health experts also observed a rise in the proportion of emergency department (ED) visits due to respiratory illnesses, which went up from 13.8% the previous week to 14.7%.
This surge in Illinois follows a nationwide increase in flu cases.
IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra acknowledged the expected rise in seasonal respiratory illnesses in a statement and urged caution.
“As we gather with our loved ones during the holiday season, please use all available tools to protect those most vulnerable to severe outcomes,” he stated. “This includes individuals over 65, very young children, and those who are immunosuppressed.”
Vohra advised hosts of Christmas parties to remind guests to cover their coughs and sneezes, encourage excellent hand hygiene, and ensure proper indoor ventilation.
If you become ill, minimizing contact with others as much as possible can help reduce the spread of sickness.
Unless medical attention is required, individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms such as fever, runny nose, or coughing should attempt to self-isolate. If isolation isn’t feasible, we recommend wearing a well-fitting mask around others.
Those who become ill can start effective antiviral treatments for COVID-19 and the flu as soon as possible.
Public health officials also emphasized that it’s not too late to get vaccinated, even with Christmas gatherings approaching. Getting vaccinated now will provide protection throughout the cold and flu season, which extends into the spring. However, it will take about two weeks for the vaccines to reach their full level of effectiveness.
As winter approaches, Illinois is seeing a rise in seasonal respiratory illnesses, as anticipated,” Vohra said. “Please use every resource available to protect friends and family who are most at risk of serious consequences as we spend the holidays with our loved ones.
