The state of Illinois is seeing a decline in seasonal respiratory viruses in the latest report from the CDC, but Jefferson and Wayne Counties have risen to moderate levels for COVID-19 hospitalizations.
The latest numbers show Jefferson and Wayne Counties with six hospitalizations. They are among ten counties statewide with a moderate level of hospitalization. Four of the other counties at an elevated level, Jackson, Williamson, Perry, and Franklin, are also in Southern Illinois.
Marion and Washington County have five new hospitalizations, Fayette and Effingham Counties three, and Clay and Jasper one not enough to raise them above the low level.
Marion County Health Department Administator Melissa Mallow reports only one congregate care facility remains on outbreak status. It is the same Centralia facility that has been on the list the past few months. There was just one new staff case in the last reporting period. The facility has now had 55 staff and 29 residents who have contracted COVID-19.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra says while cases are declining, they will remain vigilant as we near the end of the winter respiratory season. He is encouraging residents, especially those most vulnerable to severe health outcomes from COVID-19, flu, and RSV to use the tools at their disposal to stay safe.
