The Kendall County Health Department, alongside the Illinois Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to monitor novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19). Cases of COVID-19 infection in people continue to be detected in the United States, with cases in various areas in Illinois. “As we anticipated, the number of cases in Illinois is increasing and now includes the first cases outside of Chicago and Cook County,” says Dr. Ngozi Ezike. New cases include Cook, Kane and McHenry counties.
COVID19 is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person, between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Symptoms can include; fever, cough and shortness of breath. CDC believes at this time that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure. There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 infection. As a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday healthy behaviors to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- If you think you have been exposed to someone sick with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, you may face some limitations on your movement and activity. Please follow instructions during this time. Your cooperation is integral to the ongoing public health response to try to slow spread of this virus. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms, contact your healthcare provider, and tell them about your symptoms and your travel or exposure to a COVID-19 patient.
- Also, it’s currently flu and respiratory disease season and CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should promptly call ahead to their healthcare provider.
Those who are traveling should consider all travels risks prior to following through on travel plans. There are ongoing investigations to learn more about the specificity of a coronavirus transmission. This is an evolving situation and fresh information will be available on our website. Community members are welcome to call the Kendall County Health Department at (630)553-9100 with questions.
Nonpharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) are actions, apart from getting vaccinated or taking medication, that people and communities can take to help slow the spread of illnesses. Please click the images below for more information.
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For more information on COVID-19, please visit these informational sites:
