Illinois Respiratory Illness Update Issued By IDPH

Illinois remains at a "moderate" level for overall respiratory illness level, after reaching "high" levels nearly a month ago during Christmastime. Current data is from Jan. 4 to Jan. 10, according to IDPH.

Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across the United States, however, activity has decreased or remained stable for two weeks, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC said it will continue to monitor for a second period of increased influenza activity that often occurs after the winter holidays.

At least 18 million people have gotten sick, and 9,300 people have died from the flu this season, according to the CDC. At least 32 of those who died were children.

IDPH said flu activity in the state is now moderate, and so is COVID-19. RSV activity in Illinois is now "low."

Hospital admissions from respiratory illnesses in Illinois are now trending downward. According to IDPH, hospital admissions for COVID-19 are at 1.8 percent, 3.34 percent from flu and .52 percent from RSV.

The previous season's peak hospital admissions due to flu was 6.9 percent on Feb. 8, 2025.

While anyone can potentially become seriously ill from seasonal respiratory illnesses, the most susceptible are the very young, very old, pregnant individuals, and those who are immunocompromised or have other underlying health conditions.

IDPH advises washing your hands often; covering coughs and sneezes; staying home if you're sick; consider wearing a mask, especially in crowded, indoor spaces; and getting your annual flu and COVID-19 shots.