COVID Risk Level Soars To 'High' Again In DuPage County

DUPAGE COUNTY, IL — Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations have recently surged in DuPage County, leading the health department to announce that the county's coronavirus risk was escalated to "high" as of Friday.

The shift comes after DuPage County reported just over 203 new COVID-19 cases and 13.4 coronavirus hospitalizations per 100,000 residents over the past seven days. Officials say there has been an uptick in hospitalizations linked to coronavirus over the past few weeks, to the highest level the county has seen since January 2022.

“With the holidays and winter upon us, that means more time spent indoors with children, family, and friends. Karen Ayala, Executive Director of the DuPage County Health Department, said in a news release.

She added, “Enjoy this time and take at least one action so respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) aren’t on your holiday guest list. Whether that’s getting up-to-date with recommended vaccines, choosing to wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor spaces, or improving ventilation at your next gathering, do something to protect yourself and those around you while respiratory illnesses are at high levels in our community."

The DuPage County Health Department recommends:

• Staying home if sick
• Covering your mouth and nose if sneezing or coughing
• Getting flu and coronavirus vaccines
• Avoiding touching your eyes, mouth and nose
• Staying out of close contact with sick or symptomatic people
• Wearing N95 or KN95 masks that fit snugly over your chin and nose
• Using HEPA filters or opening windows
• Washing hands frequently for 20 seconds or more
• Wearing hand sanitizer with 60 percent or more alcohol
• Eat and sleep well

Click the link to view DuPage County's coronavirus dashboard and learn more about cases throughout the county.