As Illinois surpasses the 1 million mark for bivalent COVID-10 booster shots, some local counties are dealing with high virus transmission.
The CDC reports Knox and Warren counties are among three counties statewide at High Community Level for COVID-19.
Knox County had a 15% percent increase in cases for the week ending Oct. 19, with 43 cases reported.
In Warren County, 16 new cases in a week made for a 166% increase.
Statewide, there have been 43 COVID deaths since Oct. 14.
Dr. Sameer Vohra, director of IDPH, said he is encouraged by the growing number of Illinoisans who are getting the booster as COVID cases rise in some areas.
“Now is the best time to get fully immunized and protected,” he said.
Vohra said the state is experiencing a sharp increase in severe pediatric respiratory diseases that is already causing a shortage of pediatric beds.
With a potential fall and winter surge of COVID-19 and other illnesses, Vohra is strongly recommending COVID-19 and flu shots for all who are eligible.
The CDC recommends those living in areas with High Community Level transmission of COVID-19 wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status and to stay up to date with vaccines and boosters.
Henderson County is among 26 counties listed at Medium Community Level. Those residents should also stay up to date with vaccines boosters, and if elderly or immunocompromised, wear masks indoors.
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