The number of counties with elevated transmission of COVID-19 continues to grow in Illinois, and experts are cautioning people to be careful as holiday gatherings will bring people together over the next several weeks.
Eighty-six counties in Illinois are at the "elevated" transmission level for COVID. In the WSIU listening area, only a half-dozen counties remain in the "low" transmission status - the rest are split between "elevated" and "high" transmission.
COVID isn't the only concern among health officials, either. Numerous respiratory viruses - including flu and RSV - are circulating right now, sending people to hospitals and urgent care centers in high numbers.
People are encouraged to wear masks, make sure their flu and COVID vaccinations are up-to-date, and stay home if you're feeling sick.
