SPRINGFIELD (WSIL) -- The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced 12 new cases of the coronavirus COVID-19 across Illinois, bringing the total to 105 as of Monday.
Two additional counties are now reporting cases - Peoria and Will counties.
Other locations with cases include Chicago and Champaign, Clinton, Cook, Cumberland, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Sangamon, St. Clair, Whiteside, Winnebago and Woodford counties.
“We know there is a lot of concern as the number of cases and locations increase,� said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “However, not everyone who has respiratory symptoms like cough and shortness of breath needs to be tested. Similarly, not everyone who is infected with novel coronavirus needs medical treatment. We want to make sure those at higher risk of severe illness are prioritized for testing and that they can receive the medical care they need. We ask those who have mild symptoms to stay home so the healthcare system is not overwhelmed.�
Health officials say cases have occurred in all age ranges, and the number of cases that do not have a clear connection to travel or a known COVID-19 case is increasing.
They recommend social distancing measures, such as working from home when possible, limiting the amount of time spent in the community, and trying to avoid public transportation as much as possible, to help reduce the number of people who become sick at any given time.
