Latest Data Shows 15 Illinois Counties at Elevated COVID-19 Community Level – NBC Chicago

According to the latest data from Illinois health officials and the CDC, 15 of the state’s 102 counties are currently at elevated COVID-19 community levels, up from five counties over the past week.

Of the 15 counties at elevated levels, one is currently at a “high” COVID-19 community level.

All Chicago-area counties are currently at “low” COVID-19 community levels.

In addition, Illinois Department of Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra announced the launch of a new Rapid Response Unit to be deployed in the event of a sudden surge in the future.

The “STATeam” (Support, Treatment and Access Team) will be deployed as needed as the pandemic evolves.

The unit is designed to support the county’s health partners with access to testing, treatment, contact tracing and vaccinations in the event of a surge.

According to Illinois health officials, a total of 4,040,139 cases and 36,229 deaths have been reported in the state since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

In the week ended February 5, state health officials reported 10,234 new confirmed and probable cases, in addition to 62 deaths.

“We are seeing a slight increase in COVID-19 community levels this week. However, with the number of COVID-19 communities relatively low and the state of Illinois planning for the end of the statewide disaster declaration in May, IDPH remains committed to remaining vigilant and protecting Illinois residents most at risk. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of the new STATeam. This innovative new program will provide additional support to our local health departments and long-term care facilities, protect our most vulnerable residents and protect them from COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses,” Vohra said in a statement.

As of Thursday night, 834 people in Illinois were reportedly hospitalized with COVID-19. Of these, 100 patients were in the intensive care unit and 34 patients were ventilated.

Currently, the preliminary seven-day statewide case rate is 80 cases per 100,000 Illinois residents.

A total of 25,969,848 vaccines had been administered in Illinois as of Friday. Of the state’s total population, more than 79 percent have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, more than 71 percent have completed their primary vaccination course, and more than 19 percent have now received a bivalent booster dose.

The following Illinois counties are currently at a “moderate” COVID-19 community level where masks are recommended for those with compromised immune systems:

• Alexander County
• Clay County
• Edwards County
• Fayette County
• Franklin County
• Jackson County
• Jasper County
• Jo Daviess County
• County Perry
• Pulaski district
• Stephenson County
• Union County
• County Wabash
• Williamson County

One county in Illinois, Richland County, is currently at a “high” COVID-19 community level, where masks are recommended for everyone indoors.