Lake County, Ill. — The Lake County Health Department is reporting 11 new cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Lake County since yesterday. This brings the total number of Lake County residents who have tested positive for the disease to 49 since March 11, 2020. Public health officials continue to urge all residents to take precautions to limit the spread of the virus.
“In light of the ‘stay at home’ order issued by the State that goes into effect tomorrow evening, we ask that all residents help us reduce new infections in Lake County,” said Lisa Kritz, Director of Prevention for the Lake County Health Department. “If you can, stay home. If you work in a sector providing essential services such as healthcare, pharmacies, government, childcare, or grocery stores, we need you to stay healthy. Everyone should continue to practice social distancing, wash your hands often, clean commonly touched surfaces daily, and absolutely stay home if you are sick.”
The Lake County Health Department has been working closely with healthcare providers and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to arrange COVID-19 testing for Lake County residents. Currently, the Health Department can arrange testing through the IDPH lab for hospitalized patients with acute respiratory illness and those living in congregate settings, such as nursing homes and shelters.
Commercial labs in the area are continually working to increase their testing capacity, and people who have worsening respiratory symptoms are advised to contact their physician to seek testing. Residents who do not have a primary care provider can contact the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center at (847) 377-8800 to schedule an appointment.
According to IDPH, the State is working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Wal-Mart, and Walgreens to set up drive-thru testing sites in the hardest hit areas of the state. These facilities will focus on senior citizens, first responders, and healthcare workers.
At this time, there is sufficient capacity in Lake County to care for those with severe illness who require hospitalization.