Illinois flu activity reaches ‘very high’ level as IDPH urges vaccinations, precautions
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — Illinois Department of Public Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated and take basic preventive measures as influenza activity climbs to “very high” levels statewide and COVID-19 rates continue to rise.
Flu activity has reached the most severe of five respiratory illness categories, as defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19 activity in Illinois has increased to moderate levels, mirroring trends seen nationwide, according to IDPH.
Illinois also has reported its first pediatric influenza-related death of the season. Nationally, nine pediatric flu deaths have been reported so far this season. During the 2024-25 season, Illinois recorded 12 pediatric flu deaths, along with six deaths from RSV and three from COVID-19.
“Illinois is facing a significant winter surge in seasonal respiratory illnesses with flu activity at very high levels,” IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. “Vaccinations remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness from flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Simple steps like covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, staying home when sick if able, and improving ventilation are also critical to preventing further spread.”
Vohra said people who develop symptoms should seek evaluation and treatment early, particularly adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant individuals, those with chronic conditions and caregivers of people at higher risk. IDPH said it is monitoring conditions closely and working with public health and health care partners statewide.
According to IDPH vaccination data, about 21.9% of Illinois residents have received a flu shot this season, while 6.8% have received a COVID-19 vaccination. Officials encourage residents to contact health care providers, pharmacists or local health departments for vaccine information.
IDPH recommends several steps to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading seasonal respiratory illnesses, including getting vaccinated, washing hands frequently, staying home when sick when possible, wearing a mask if ill, covering coughs and sneezes, minimizing close contact with sick individuals and seeking antiviral treatment early when symptoms begin. Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 48 hours for flu and within five to seven days for COVID-19, officials said.
Statewide data on seasonal respiratory illnesses is available on IDPH’s weekly updated respiratory illness dashboard.
