Illinois Surpasses 10K Cases Of Coronavirus, 243 Deaths

ACROSS ILLINOIS — As of Saturday, Illinois has surpassed 10,000 cases of coronavirus, which Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike called, "sobering." This includes 1,453 new cases in 24 hours and 33 new deaths. The statewide death toll is now at 243 "precious lives lost," Ezike added.

Ezike said, "I'd like to begin today with a simple plea. Please continue to stay home."

Before Ezike's comments, Gov. J.B. Pritzker spoke of the need to help the most vulnerable residents in Illinois. Pritzker encouraged showing you care via social distancing. He encouraged residents to "Text or call a neighbor who is struggling, [pick up groceries] for a neighbor and leave it on their steps."

He added that "We're working to increase access to Medicaid and food benefits for those Illinoisans who find themselves newly in need of help," he added.

Pritzker was joined by leaders of human services departments who he said has been "protecting our most vulnerable residents and doing everything they can for their health and wellness."

Don't miss updates about precautions in the Chicago area as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

Help for Veterans

On March 11, each of the veterans' homes limited all visits to essential personnel, Department of Veterans Affairs Director Linda Chapa LaVia said. She added that employees and essential vendors are subject to pre-shift health screenings, including twice daily temperature checks.

At press time, there had been no cases of coronavirus at the department's long-term care facilities, Chapa LaVia said.

There is a single positive case in an employee at Prince Home in Manteno, which provides housing and support for homeless veterans. Chapa LaVia said the employee is home and recovering.

Residents and family are encouraged to call, email or leave loving messages on Facebook for the residents.

Help for Children and Families

Department of Children and Family Services Director Mark Smith said changes have been made to the system during the coronavirus crisis. "Today 88 percent of our DCFS workforce no longer report for work in-person."

"Every call for a worker at the abuse and neglect hotline has been taking calls from the safety of their homes," Smith said.

As of March 20, case workers and parents have begun using video in lieu of many in-person visits. Staff has been using personal protective equipment for necessary in-person visits, Smith said.

Smith added that the department is expanding services for youth who have aged out of the system throughout the crisis. He said payments to foster parents and care has also been secured.

"We are rapidly adjusting our system, so we can balance the needs, Smith said. He added, "This work will not end," Smith said.

Illinois Coronavirus Update April 4: 10,357 Cases, 243 Deaths