(WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Flu cases are on the rise in Illinois.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced Monday the state’s overall respiratory illness level has been elevated from moderate to high. The change is fueled by a significant increase in emergency room visits and hospital admissions for flu.
The data represents two weeks ago, from Jan. 19 to Jan. 25. It showed a decline in COVID-19 and RSV cases, but flu circulating more widely. The IDPH says currently there are three times as many hospital admissions for flu as there are for COVID-19.
“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.
Vohra urges anyone experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness, like fever, runny nose, sore throat or cough, should consider getting tested and seek treatment right away.
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