As Chairman of the Cook County Health Committee it is essential that I stress the importance of health safety during this state of emergency in light of the COVID 19 virus. It is also important to know that the World Health Organization announced on March 11, 2020 that the spread of COVID 19 is qualified as a global pandemic.
According to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) this is a rapidly evolving situation and the risk assessment for Americans may change. According to the WHO, as of Mar. 12, COVID-19 has caused 125,048 illnesses globally. Of these, 80,981 illnesses have been in China and 44,067 illnesses have been confirmed in 117 other countries. Deaths from COVID-19 total 3,173 in China and 1,440 outside of China.
In the U.S., there have been 1,629 cases, 41 deaths, and 47 states reporting cases as of Mar. 13. Per the CDC: Data include both confirmed and presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 reported to CDC or tested at CDC since January 21, 2020, with the exception of testing results for persons repatriated to the United States from Wuhan, China and Japan. For the latest updates on the U.S. situation,
click here.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) the person-to-person spread of COVID-19 appears to be mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Preliminary data suggest older adults and people with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems seems to be at greater risk of developing serious illness from the virus.
To Combat the Virus individuals and families can take everyday actions like: Avoiding close contact with people who are sick; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; washing hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
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f you are sick and have respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, stay home unless you need medical attention. Remain in your home until you feel better and have no symptoms. Keep in mind there is no treatment for COVID-19 and people who are mildly ill can isolate at home. While at home, as much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people. Those who need medical attention should contact their health care provider who will evaluate whether they can be cared for at home or need to be hospitalized.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as needed here and on the CDC website at
