From the McHenry County Health Deartment:
McHenry County Department of Health reports surge in respiratory illness transmissions
MCHENRY COUNTY, IL – The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) has observed a significant rise in respiratory illness activity across the county, with both influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circulating at high levels.
Although COVID-19 is currently in moderate transmission, an increase in the transmission of this illness has been noted as well.
For the week of December 15 through December 21, emergency department visits for COVID-19 rose by 57.1%, while hospitalizations surged by 200%.
Emergency department visits for influenza increased by 60%, and hospitalizations jumped by 450%.
Positive influenza A and B tests also saw a 17.5% increase.
Emergency department visits for RSV grew by 16.7%, particularly among children aged 0–4 years, though RSV-related hospitalizations decreased by 11.1%.
A link to the MCDH’s Respiratory Illness Surveillance Report for this timeframe can be found here.
RSV continues to be of particular concern for young children and vulnerable populations.
The MCDH’s December 19 press release, regarding the first pediatric RSV death of the 2024 surveillance season in McHenry County, highlighted RSV’s potential for severe respiratory complications in children and emphasized the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccination for adults 60 and over and nirsevimab antibody for infants, as well as good hygiene practices.
The MCDH advises residents to get vaccinated for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV if eligible.
Additional recommendations include washing hands frequently and thoroughly, wearing masks when sick or in crowded settings, avoiding close contact with individuals who are ill, and staying home when ill. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek care from a medical provider.
Visiting individuals in nursing home settings is not recommended while ill.
For more information on respiratory illnesses in McHenry County, visit bit.ly/MCDH-respiratory-surveillance or contact the MCDH at (815) 334-4500.
