Seasonal viruses have been on the uptick for the last several weeks across the State. Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reminds the public to take precautions–to protect the health of friends and family who are vulnerable to severe illness. The guidance comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 48 Counties are at an elevated level for COVID-19 hospital admissions, as of the week ending Saturday, December 9, 2023.
The Federal Government recently announced that every household in the U. S. is eligible to receive four free at-home tests through the COVID.gov website.
IDPH launched a new awareness campaign this fall, to remind Illinoisans that vaccinations provide the best protection against the triple threat of COVID-19, flu and RSV.
Holiday hosts are urged to enhance the safety of guests by providing proper indoor ventilation; encouraging good hand hygiene; reminding guests to cover coughs and sneezes. If someone is feeling symptoms of a respiratory virus–such as coughing, sneezing, sore throat, a runny nose, or fever–it is best to get tested. And wear a mask around others to not spread illness.
Updated COVID-19 shots are effective against the currently dominant Covid-19 variants. They are recommended for all people 6 months and older.
People with egg allergy may now get any flu vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based) that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health status. They do not need to limit themselves to non-egg based shots alone.
Those older than 65 years should receive any one of the higher dose or “adjuvanted” influenza shots.
The RSV shots are now available for those over 60 years and pregnant people. Older adults with risk factors for RSV should talk to their provider about which shot is right for them.
The Federal Government recently announced that every household in the U. S. is eligible to receive four free at-home tests through the COVID.gov website.
For those who are uninsured or under-insured, the CDC this summer launched the Bridge Access Program that will cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccines. The Vaccines for Children Program will cover vaccines for eligible children.
For treatment of COVID-19, Illinoisans who experience symptoms can access no cost-share telehealth services, through the SIU School of Medicine COVID Test to Treat services or call 217- 545-5100. An additional option is the NIH Test to Treat line or call 1-800-682-2829 to get access to no-cost care.
The Federal Government has established a website that provides an all-purpose toolkit with information on how to obtain masks, treatment, vaccines, and testing resources for all areas of the Country at https://www.covid.gov/.