CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Like health systems across the state, Advocate Aurora Health has seen a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations in recent weeks.
A reported 447 inpatients are currently being treated at Advocate facilities in Illinois, which is an increase of 175.9% over the last month.
“The vast majority of our patients in our hospitals are either not vaccinated or not fully vaccinated,” said Dr. Robert Citronberg, executive medical director of infectious disease and prevention at Advocate Aurora Health.
Seventy-four percent of those hospitalized with COVID-19 are unvaccinated and 18% are partially vaccinated or due for a booster shot.
Only 8%, or about 35 patients, are fully-vaccinated with a booster shot and even then, Citronberg said symptoms are mild.
“Can you get COVID if you've been vaccinated and boosted? Yes,” said Citronberg. “But your chances of getting severely ill or dying from it are extremely low.”
The health system hopes its recently released data will encourage Illinoisans to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive their booster dose.
During a media conference, Citronberg noted fear can be a motivator for those who are hesitant.
“If they see family members or friends who are hospitalized and dying from COVID, sometimes that can change their mind, but at this point, many people are dug in and they don't want to get the vaccine,” he said. “But we're still continuing to do everything we can to encourage people to get fully vaccinated and boosted.”
Vaccination appointments can be made at all Advocate Aurora Health vaccine locations one of three ways: scheduled online at aah.org/vaccine, through the LiveWell app or by calling 866-443-2584.
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