"Rising COVID Numbers Prompt Urgent Call for Vigilance Against Respiratory Viruses"

Public health officials in Illinois are urging residents to remain vigilant against respiratory viruses as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase. Twenty counties in the state are experiencing a rise in hospitalizations related to COVID-19, along with an increase in flu and RSV infections. Officials recommend practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs, and encourage individuals with respiratory infection symptoms to skip holiday gatherings. The CDC reports that Omicron strains of COVID-19 are currently the most common, and there is a nationwide rise in RSV cases, particularly among children and older adults. The CDC offers free COVID-19 vaccines for the uninsured, and pregnant individuals are advised to receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks to pass along antibodies.