SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported respiratory illnesses have increased and the illness level is now at a high level in Illinois.
IDPH said there has been a notable increase in emergency department visits and hospital admissions for flu.
The uptick has moved from moderate to high this past week.
For the week ending in January 25, COVID-19 and RSV are declining while flu admissions at hospitals are seeing three times the amount compared to COVID-19 and RSV.
“IDPH continues to closely monitor data on seasonal viruses during this respiratory season,� said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Flu continues to circulate widely across Illinois. I recommend that all those over 65, very young children, individuals with chronic disease, and those who are immunocompromised, use all the tools at their disposal to prevent exposure. If you do develop flu-like symptoms, contact your health care provider and seek treatment right away. Antiviral medication is most effective if initiated less than 48 hours after your symptoms begin.�
Health officials say it's important to get vaccinated.
The IDPH Respiratory Illness Dashboard has recorded five pediatric deaths this season from the flu, three from RSV and one from COVID-19 and RSV. IDPH says, "These deaths are a stark reminder of the importance for vaccinations for children and of the risk of serious illness from these largely preventable seasonal illnesses."
For information on IDPH's vaccine locator, you can find it .
The ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý 7 Health Department is holding a Pop-up Flu Vaccine Clinic in Anna after increased rates in Illinois and the surrounding region.
A flu and COVID vaccine clinic will take place for those 18+ on Wednesday, February 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shawnee Community College Anna Extension Center in Anna.
Both vaccines will also be available with the WOW Van in Mounds on February 5, at the SMILES Senior Center from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Stop 'n Shop from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý 7 Health Department also recommends the following tips to keep you healthy...
- Wash your hands. You should wash frequently with water and soap for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub containing at least 60% isopropyl alcohol.
- Avoid touching your face. Try not to touch your eyes, mouth, or nose with unwashed hands.
- Cough and/or sneeze into your elbow. Be sure to practice this healthy habit to avoid germy hands.
- Wipe down and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, tabletops, countertops, bathroom sinks, toilets, faucet handles, shopping cart handles, and gas pump handles. It’s a good idea to keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your vehicle to use after pumping gas.
- Disinfect hard, nonporous surfaces in your vehicle, including cup holders, steering wheel, door handles, seat buckles, and radio knobs as permitted by the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting of electronics.
- Maintain your space between yourself and others keeping 6 feet of distance whenever possible. Try and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Wear a facemask to help reduce your chance of inhaling viral particles or spreading a virus to someone who may have a weakened immune system.
- Boost your immune system. Proper diet, hydration, exercise, and sleep are all needed to maintaining good health. While a strong immune system doesn’t prevent you from getting sick or passing a virus on to others, establishing these habits are beneficial to help maintain your physical health during cold and flu season.
- Stay home when you’re sick.
The ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý 7 Health Department also said flu and COVID vaccines are covered in whole or in part by most insurance companies. The health department urges you to bring your insurance card with you. For those under 18 or those who cannot attend any of the clinics on February 5, contact your local health department to set up an appointment.
