CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The state’s top medical officer broke down Friday as she recited the latest coronavirus death toll in Illinois and told people she understands their frustrations with a pandemic with seemingly no end.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director Ngozi Ezike reported 31 new deaths from COVID-19, which brings the state's total number of virus-related deaths to 9,418. She said these victims represent the people who started 2020 with everyone else but who won't be celebrating Thanksgiving with family members.
She was overcome with emotion and stopped to compose herself.
“My message to you is to stay strong. I've never run a marathon, but I have the utmost regard for those who've been able to train and plan and finish a marathon. But this is a difficult race when you can’t actually see the endpoint,” Ezike said.
"And I'm sorry that that's the message I have for you."
She urged Illinoisans to “fight the fatigue” of having to keep social distance and to wear masks, among other restrictions on their lives because of COVID-19.
The statewide positivity rate for coronavirus dipped a tenth of a point Friday as the state reported 3,874 new cases of coronavirus.
The rolling average is 5.6%, though specific regions in Illinois are seeing consistently higher percentages that have drawn increased state restrictions for bars, restaurants and gatherings. The added measures are unpopular with the restaurant industry, which has been decimated by the pandemic.
Gov. JB Pritzker praised Ezike and said she has worked around the clock while facing backlash from critics, including demonstrators who have protested outside her home.
“People have a right to do that, but people should take into consideration that this is a very difficult job,” the governor said.
Officials say Illinois and much of country are experiencing a second wave of novel coronavirus after bending the curve over the summer. Chicago likewise is experiencing hundreds of new cases daily and has imposed new restrictions on businesses, effective Friday.
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