Illinois is investing $1.5 million to prepare for the next public health crisis. Governor JB Pritzker announced that Rush University Medical Center and Lurie Children’s Hospital will become Elite Special Pathogen Treatment Centers, equipped to handle dangerous diseases like Ebola and Lassa fever. Rush will receive $900,000 and Lurie $600,000 from the Illinois Department of Public Health to upgrade infection isolation rooms, purchase specialized equipment, and train staff for emergency response. Officials say the move comes amid concerns over federal public health funding cuts.
Dr. Brian Stein of Rush says their experience with the COVID-19 pandemic and years of involvement with the CDC have built strong foundations for this role. The effort is part of Illinois' broader strategy to improve disease surveillance and ensure hospitals are ready to treat highly infectious patients while keeping communities safe. The state says it’s taking action, even if the federal government won’t.
