Latest Elmhurst Coronavirus Updates

ELMHURST, IL — The coronavirus is having an impact on just about every area of life in Elmhurst — the schools, businesses, the parks, the hospital and events.

As of Thursday, 670 additional coronavirus cases were confirmed in Illinois, increasing the state's count to 2,539. The United States became the hardest-hit nation in the world when it comes to the virus, with more than 86,000 cases.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has also issued a stay-at-home order in effect until at least April 7. With this order, only essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and restaurants offering carry-out services can stay open.

Here are the latest updates from Elmhurst:

SCHOOLS

Schools across Illinois, and in Elmhurst, will be closed until at least April 8, required by Gov. J.B. Pritzker's stay-at-home order. Most expect that order to be extended. MORE.

BUSINESSES

Restaurants and bars are among the hardest-hit businesses because of the coronavirus. Many are still offering takeout and delivery. The Elmhurst city government has compiled a list of dozens of restaurants that are providing services. MORE.

Three Elmhurst grocery stores have special hours designated for senior citizens — 6 to 8 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday at Jewel, 8 to 9 a.m. daily at Whole Foods and 6 to 8 a.m. daily at Mariano's. MORE.

PARKS

The Elmhurst Park District has closed its playgrounds, posting signs and surrounding them with caution tape. This is in response to the governor's stay-at-home order. All park buildings are closed. The district has expressed concern about congregations of people in its parks, particularly those playing games on fields. It has called the police for help in dispersing such groups. And it has warned if the problems continue, it may have to close the parks entirely. MORE.

HOSPITAL

Elmhurst Hospital is not allowing visitors in most of its inpatient and outpatient areas. Exceptions have been made for certain patient groups, including pediatric patients and infants. MORE.

CANCELLATIONS/CLOSURES

The Diocese of Joliet has suspended all normal religious services, which includes celebrations for Easter Week. The services are canceled until further notice. The Islamic Foundation of the Southwest Suburbs has also suspended its Friday services. Virtually all other church services have been canceled as well. MORE.

Read more:

Illinois Coronavirus Update March 27: U.S. Surpasses China

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