COVID-19 Hospitalizations Increase in Marion and Washington Counties, Warns Illinois Department of Public Health

The Centers for Disease Control data tracker has raised the COVID-19 hospitalization levels for Marion and Washington Counties to high, according to the latest weekly report. With a total of 14 hospitalizations due to COVID-19, the situation in these two counties is cause for concern.

In contrast, Jefferson, Wayne, and Clay Counties are currently experiencing medium levels of hospitalizations. Eight hospitalizations have been reported in Jefferson and Wayne Counties, while Clay County has reported six.

Melissa Mallow, Marion County Health Department Administrator, provided an update on the outbreak situation in the area. Two congregate care facilities located in Centralia remain on outbreak status. One facility, which has been on outbreak status for several weeks, has reported a total of 53 employees and 27 residents who have tested positive for COVID-19. In the past week alone, nine new employees and five residents have contracted the virus. Fortunately, there have been no hospitalizations resulting from this outbreak.

The second Centralia facility has reported one staff member and one resident with COVID-19. The infected resident has been hospitalized for treatment.

On a positive note, Mallow also mentioned that a third Centralia facility on outbreak status has dropped from the list this week, indicating a successful containment effort.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has reported that over half of the counties in Illinois are currently experiencing an elevated level of COVID-19 hospitalizations. However, the state's overall respiratory illness level has decreased in recent weeks and is currently listed as low. IDPH emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant as the respiratory virus season may extend into the spring, and there could be potential increases in illness rates.

In addition to concerns regarding COVID-19, IDPH has confirmed that a third pediatric death due to influenza has occurred this week. All three cases had onsets in December. This serves as a sobering reminder of the severity of influenza in children and highlights the importance of vaccination.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for residents of Marion and Washington Counties to follow guidance from health officials, practice proper hygiene, and consider vaccination to protect themselves and their communities.