State Senator Dale Fowler | Illinois State Senator
State Senator Dale Fowler | Illinois State Senator
As winter approaches, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging residents to take preventive measures against seasonal respiratory illnesses. With family gatherings and celebrations expected during the holiday season, public health officials anticipate an increase in such illnesses.
The IDPH has noted a significant rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases. October saw 408 cases, marking the highest monthly total in 20 years and more than double the figure from October 2023. This year, over 1,900 confirmed and probable cases have been recorded in Illinois, the highest since 2012.
To help prevent the spread of illness during holiday gatherings, IDPH suggests that hosts consider providing areas or rooms with good ventilation for guests. They also recommend encouraging good hygiene practices and hand washing, as well as reminding guests to cover their coughs and sneezes.
For additional information and guidance on protection measures, individuals are encouraged to seek resources provided by health authorities.
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