As of Friday, March 27, 2020, there are 21 positive cases of COVID-19 in the Northern Illinois Rockford Region. Cases have occurred in ages ranging from teens to 80s. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) confirmed a positive case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Carroll County. Carroll County reports a resident in their 40s tested positive for COVID-19.
Other locations in the Northern Illinois Rockford Region with positive COVID-19 cases include DeKalb County (6), Jo Daviess (1), Stephenson (2), Whiteside County (2), and Winnebago County (9.) The additional case announced from Whiteside County is a resident in their 60s. The additional case announced from Winnebago County is a resident in their 80s. The additional two cases in DeKalb are both in their 70s.
As expected, we are seeing additional cases in the Region. The local Health Departments work closely with IDPH to identify and notify those that may have been in close contact with the individuals who have tested positive. To slow the spread of COVID-19, it is important for everyone to take steps to prevent exposure. Stay home. Only leave your house for basic needs, including visiting the doctor or buying groceries, medicine, gasoline, or similar supplies.
What the Public Can Do
Stay calm. You are not alone in this; your community is here to support you. Talk to your friends and family, and let them know if you are having concerns.
Stay Apart. Keep at least six feet away from others, including while shopping. Avoid the lines by taking advantage of pick-up and delivery services, for groceries and other goods.
Stay Put. Stay home, and only leave when it is essential. Be mindful of those who are at greater risk for contracting this virus, including older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Call your Healthcare Provider. If you experience fever, cough, and shortness of breath (flu-like symptoms), stay home. Call your healthcare provider before going to a healthcare facility. Inform them of your symptoms.
Be Cautious of Scammers. There have been reports of people using fears around COVID-19 to take advantage and scam others. Be cautious about giving money to any agency claiming to be raising funds to help with COVID-19, especially if they ask for your Social Security and credit card information.
For more information go to IDPH and CDC websites:
- http://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
For general questions about COVID-19, call the IDPH hotline at 1-800-889-3931.