Flu cases in Illinois drive increase in ER visits, hospital admissions
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Cases of flu are driving an increase in emergency department visits and hospital admissions in Illinois, state health officials announced.
The state’s overall respiratory illness level rose from "moderate" to "high" after a one-week dip, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Surge in flu cases
What we know:
For the week ending Jan. 25, while COVID-19 and RSV cases were declining, state data indicates the flu is circulating more widely.
There were three times as many hospital admissions for flu than there were for COVID-19, with 4.6% of admissions due to flu, 1.6% for COVID-19, and 0.7% for RSV.
Overall, nearly 20% of emergency room visits were for acute respiratory illness, a catchall category that includes cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV.
Vaccinations
What you can do:
Public health officials said it’s not too late to get vaccinated for those who haven’t yet.
It takes about two weeks for vaccinations to provide their full protection so a shot now would offer protection through the cold and flu season and into the spring.
Officials also said anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness, including a fever, runny nose, sore throat or cough, should consider getting tested and treated early. Those who feel ill should avoid spreading germs to others by self-isolating or wearing a mask if they're unable to isolate.
IDPH has new FAQ documents on its website with the latest guidance on vaccinations and how to get tested for seasonal illness.