By now we have all heard of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. This is a rapidly evolving situation and we want to let our community know what we are doing, what you need to know, and where to go for the most reliable and up-to-date information.
Warren County currently does not have any COVID-19 cases. There are 288 cases in 17 counties in Illinois. Cases have occurred in ages 9 to 91. The Warren County Health Department (WCHD), the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), The Center for Disease Control (CDC), and Governor Pritzker’s office are closely monitoring information on COVID-19. The WCHD continues to coordinate with local, regional, and state partners by:
- Participating in calls/webinars with IDPH and the CDC
- Meeting with local community leaders and partners
- Sharing information with the public, partners, and staff via email, social media, and local radio
- Partnering with health care providers on criteria and approval for testing
- Preparing for case investigations to identify close contacts if a positive case is in Warren county
- Monitoring individuals who have returned from foreign travel and meet the criteria to self-quarantine.
There is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about the virus and the seriousness of it. Unlike seasonal influenza (the flu), no one has immunity to COVID-19, nor do we have a vaccine for it yet. The symptoms of COVID-19 are cough, fever, and shortness of breath. Those most at risk for the virus are adults 60 and older; and those with compromised immune systems. While many people may not fall into this category, it is important to remember that we all come into contact with those at risk. You may have mild or no symptoms of the virus, but you may transmit the virus to someone who is at high risk. Therefore, we suggest staying home as much as possible, limiting necessary gatherings to 10 people or less, covering your cough, washing your hands, and staying at home if you are sick. These are proactive steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 in your community.
What do I do if I am not feeling well and have respiratory symptoms?
- If your symptoms are mild, please stay home for at least 7 days after you first became ill, or 72 hours after your fever has resolved and symptoms are improving, whichever is longer.
- You should consult with your doctor if you have a fever, cough, trouble breathing, or other flu-like symptoms that are not better or are worsening after 24-48 hours or if you have mild symptoms and are pregnant or immunosuppressed or are an older adult with chronic health conditions.
- Your health care provider will determine if you should be tested and collect appropriate samples for testing.
- If you think you need immediate medical attention, please call ahead to your health care provider before going in for care. This will allow them to take the right steps to protect themselves and other patients.
- If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. If you have been exposed to COVID-19, notify dispatch personnel so they can alert emergency medical services.
Where can I get the most reliable and up to date information?
- The Illinois department of public health www.dph.illinois.gov/
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/
- The World Health Organization www.who.int/
Thank you for your patience and understanding. WCHD staff are available by phone or our Facebook page to answer your questions. For general questions about COVID-19, call the IDPH hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email dph.sick@illinois.gov.
***Report Courtesy of the Warren County Health Department***