Springfield IL

COVID-19 Updates In Springfield And Central Illinois

NPR Illinois | 91.9 UIS | By NPR Illinois News Staff

Published May 26, 2020 at 2:53 PM CDT

A sign asks customers to wear face coverings, which is required by Gov. J.B. Pritzker's most recent stay-at-home order. — A sign asks customers to wear face coverings, which is required at most stores by Gov. J.B. Pritzker's most recent stay-at-home order.

This post is for news on the local response to the coronavirus in Springfield and Central Illinois. For last week's updates, go to this post.

You can send tips, questions or announcements to engage@nprillinois.org.

Illinois has moved to Phase Four of the governor's Restore Illinois plan.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no vaccine to prevent the disease. The CDC has tips on how to protect yourself.

October 19, 1:30 p.m.

Statewide Update for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 3,113 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 22 additional deaths.

• Carroll County: 1 female 90s
• Cook County: 1 male 50s, 1 female 70s, 1 male 70s, 2 females 80s, 1 male 80s, 1 male 90s
• DuPage County: 1 female 70s, 1 male 70s
• Fayette County: 1 male 70s, 1 female 80s
• LaSalle County: 1 female 80s
• Livingston County: 1 male 80s
• Monroe County: 1 male 80s
• Montgomery County: 1 male 80s
• Peoria County: 1 male 90s
• Wayne County: 1 male 90s
• Whiteside County: 1 female 90s
• Will County: 1 female 70s
• Williamson County: 1 male 70s
• Woodford County: 1 female 80s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 347,161 cases, including 9,236 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 12 – October 18 is 5.4%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 48,684 specimens for a total of 6,824,237. As of last night, 2,096 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 485 patients were in the ICU and 179 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 16, 6:00 p.m.

$30 Million in CURES Funding to Provide Housing Support, Utility Assistance, and Other Services for Immigrants and Refugees Impacted by COVID-19

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) on Friday announced that $30 million in CURES funding has been allocated to welcoming centers across Illinois to support the state's most vulnerable communities facing challenges as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. $18 million in funding will go towards housing and utility assistance for families in need, $4.5 million will be used to support employment and job training services and $4 million in funding will be used to provide healthcare education. The remaining $2 million will go towards a multilingual effort to reach Illinois residents eligible to receive support and $1.5 million will be used for technical assistance.

In addition to $30 million in CURES funding, IDHS received $30 million in the fiscal year 2021 budget for immigrant-related support services including $10 million to connect immigrants with critical services and citizenship support and $20 million for cash assistance for Illinoisans ineligible for the federal pandemic stimulus.

To be eligible for the cash assistance program, applicants must be an Illinois resident and experienced a financial hardship due to the current health crisis. Priority will be given to residents that are not eligible for any federal stimulus, unemployment insurance, or public benefits due to their immigration status. Illinois residents have until October 19, 2020 to apply for cash assistance. For more information go to http://www.icirr.org/covidil or text "COVID" to 52886.

Immigrant and refugee support services are available at seventeen welcoming centers across the state. The Illinois Welcoming Center's innovative model eliminates systemic barriers that immigrants may have in approaching state services. The goal of IWC's is to strengthen the overall human service delivery system for immigrants and refugees and build the capacity of immigrant and refugee communities.

For more information about immigrant and refugee support services, visit http://www.dhs.illinois.gov/welcome, email DHS.BRIS@illinois.gov, or call 312-793-7120.

October 16, 2:30 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 4,554 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, the highest one-day case total, including 38 additional confirmed deaths. (On September 4, 2020, IDPH reported 5,368 new cases of COVID-19 after a slowdown in data processing delayed reporting of some additional aggregate numbers. Cases not reported in the previous several days were included in the September 4, 2020 total. The slowdown did not affect the reporting of positive or negative results to individuals in any way.)

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 336,174 cases, including 9,165 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 9 – October 15 is 5.1%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 87,759 specimens for a total of 6,618,768. As of last night, 2,016 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 410 patients were in the ICU and 151 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 16, 1:30 p.m.

34 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported that 34 counties in Illinois are currently considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). That an increase from 26 countied last week. A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Thirty-four counties are currently reported at a warning level - Adams, Alexander, Boone, Cass, Christian, Clay, Clinton, Crawford, DeKalb, DeWitt, Jasper, Jefferson, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Kane, Lee, Macon, McDonough, McHenry Mercer, Monroe, Pike, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Stephenson, Union, Vermilion, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Whiteside, Will, Winnebago.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with gatherings in people's homes, weddings and funerals, bars and clubs, university and college parties as well as college sports teams, family gatherings, long-term care facilities, correctional centers, schools, and cases among the community at large, especially people in their 20s.

Public health officials are observing businesses blatantly disregarding mitigation measures, people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings. Mayors, local law enforcement, state's attorneys, and other community leaders can be influential in ensuring citizens and businesses follow best practices.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

October 15, 4:40 p.m.

Two Additional Deaths in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of public health today reported the deaths of two more people diagnosed with COVID-19 - two women in their 80s. The number of deaths in Sangamon County now stands at 55.

County health officials also reported 94 new positive cases. Over a thousand Sangamon County residents are currently in isolation, and 14 are currently hospitalized.

October 15, 1:00 p.m.

IDPH Statewide Update

After reporting 67,000 tests, public health officials on Thursday announced the highest one-day coronavirus disease case total - more than 4,000 new cases.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 4,015 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 53 additional confirmed deaths. On September 4, 2020, IDPH reported 5,368 new cases of COVID-19 after a slowdown in data processing delayed reporting of some additional aggregate numbers. Cases not reported in the previous several days were included in the September 4, 2020 total. The slowdown did not affect the reporting of positive or negative results to individuals in any way.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 331,620 cases, including 9,127 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 9 - October 15 is 4.9%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 67,086 specimens for a total of 6,531,009. As of last night, 1,932 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 388 patients were in the ICU and 147 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

Starting today, IDPH is including both molecular and antigen tests in the number of statewide total test performed in Illinois. Previously, due to the limited number of antigen tests and limited information about antigen test accuracy, antigen tests were not included in the total number (which comprised less than 1% of total tests performed). Antigen tests, like BinaxNOW™, are now becoming more readily available, therefore, IDPH will include both molecular and antigen tests in its total number of tests starting October 15, 2020.

October 14, 6:00 p.m.

IDPH Issues COVID-19 Holiday Season Safety Tips

As Illinoisans prepare to spend the holidays with family and friends, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is offering recommendations on how to celebrate safer during the COVID-19 pandemic. During a time when social distancing and limiting the number of people at gatherings is important, special considerations should be taken.

Traveling increases the chance of spreading COVID-19. When planning travel, consider the mode of transportation. Traveling by plane, train, or bus can mean standing in lines and sitting less than 6 feet from people for long periods of time. Traveling by car may include stops along the way for gas, food, and bathroom break. Decrease your risk by consistently wearing face coverings during travel.

If you are hosting a holiday gathering, limit the number of guests and try to have as many activities outside as weather permits. If your gathering needs to be inside, try to increase air flow by partially opening a couple windows. Please prepare yourself and your guests to wear masks indoors when not eating and drinking.

Limit your activities in the two weeks before your gathering and ask your guests to do the same. This will decrease the risk of exposure to the virus and further spread.

Try to do gift shopping online by looking at local store websites and choosing pick-up options. Grocery shopping online with delivery and curbside pick-up is also available in many locations. If you need to shop in-person, try to go at a time when stores are not as busy.

Think about the seating arrangements if you are planning a meal. Keep members of the same household together and try to put space between one family and another.

When serving food, avoid a buffet-style or potluck setting and consider having one person serve all the food so that multiple people are not handling the serving utensils. Also try to limit the number of people going in and out of areas where food is being prepared - like the kitchen and dining room.

If you are sick, do not travel and do not attend gatherings and celebrations. Even if your symptoms are mild, you may still be able to infect others, and no one wants the gift of sickness this season.

To help stave off illness, get your flu vaccine now. It takes the body several weeks after receiving the vaccine to build up antibodies that will help protect you from flu, so get it now to help protect you and others during the holidays. Roll your #SleeveUp and get your flu shot.

For more holiday safety tips, go to the IDPH website under guidance.

October 14, 5:20 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Update

On Wednesday, the Sangamon Department of Public Health reporting two additional deaths of people confirmed to have had COVID-19: a man in his 70s who tested positive on September 18th and a man in his 70s who tested positive on August 24th.

The Department also reported 56 new positive cases in the County in the past day. Since the pandemic began, there have been 3,096 confirmed cases of the disease in the county and 53 deaths.

October 14, 5:00 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Wednesday reported 2,862 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 49 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 327,605 cases, including 9,074 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 7 - October 13 is 4.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 52,669 specimens for a total of 6,463,923. As of last night, 1,974 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 390 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 13

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

On Tuesday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported new coronavirus numbers for the four-day period from Saturday through Tuesday (Oct. 10-13): 216 new positive cases (89 Saturday, 54 Sunday, 29 Monday, 44 Tuesday) and one additional death, a man in his 70's who tested positive on October 7th.

Currently, 9 people in Sangamon County are hospitalized with the disease. There have been 51 deaths and 3,040 total positive cases since the pandemic began.

October 13

Statewide COVID-19 Report

On Tuesday, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported 2,851 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 29 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 324,743 cases, including 9,026 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 6 - October 12 is 4.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 55,993 specimens for a total of 6,411,254. As of last night, 1,848 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 406 patients were in the ICU and 160 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 9, 2:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 40 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 5 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,824 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 50 deaths.

October 9, 1:30 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Report for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 2,818 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 35 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 313,518 cases, including 8,945 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 2 - October 8 is 3.8%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 71,599 specimens for a total of 6,177,379. As of last night, 1,812 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 395 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 9, 1:20 p.m.

26 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Friday October 9th, reported 26 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Twenty-six counties are currently reported at a warning level - Case, Christian, Clay, Clinton, Coles, Crawford, Effingham, Fayette, Henderson, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Lake, Lee, Mason, Massac, Pulaski, Richland, Saline, Shelby, Union, Vermilion, Whiteside, Winnebago, Warren.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with large gatherings and events, bars and clubs, weddings and funerals, university and college parties as well as college sports teams, family gatherings, long-term care facilities, correctional centers, schools, and cases among the community at large, especially people in their 20s.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

October 8, 3:20 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 45 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. 5 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,784 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 50 deaths.

October 8, 12:15 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 3,059 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 32 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 310,700 cases, including 8,910 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from October 1 - October 7 is 3.7%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 72,491 specimens for a total of 6,105,780. As of last night, 1,755 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 392 patients were in the ICU and 163 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 7, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 58 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,739 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 50 deaths.

October 7, 2:20 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Wednesday reported 2,630 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 42 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 307,641 cases, including 8,878 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 30 - October 6 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 58,820 specimens for a total of 6,033,289. As of last night, 1,679 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 372 patients were in the ICU and 165 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 6, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 29 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,681 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 50 deaths.

October 6, 4:20 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Tuesday reported 1,617 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 32 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 305,011 cases, including 8,836 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 29 - October 5 is 3.4%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 49,513 specimens for a total of 5,974,469. As of last night, 1,673 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 384 patients were in the ICU and 159 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 5, 3:45 p.m.

Sangamon County Update for Monday and the Weekend

On Monday, the Sangamon County Dept. of Public Health reported numbers reflecting the three day total, including Saturday and Sunday: 78 new positive cases of COVID-19 (24 Saturday, 10 Sunday, and 44 Monday).

The Dept. reported three additional deaths of people who had tested positive for COVID-19 - a man in his 50s, a man in his 60s, and a man in his 90s.

There have been 2,654 positive cases in the county since the beginning of the pandemic, including 50 deaths. Currently, 6 people are hospitalized withe the disease.

October 5, 2:15 p.m.

IDPH Statewide Update for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 1,853 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 14 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 303,394 cases, including 8,805 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 28 - October 4 is 3.4%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 38,538 specimens for a total of 5,924,956. As of last night, 1,631 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 382 patients were in the ICU and 155 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 2, 5:10 p.m.

Sangamon County Update for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 55 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 12 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,576 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 47 deaths.

October 2, 1:15 p.m.

28 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health today reported 28 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase. The number of counties increased from 17 last week.

Twenty-eight counties are currently reported at a warning level - Bond, Boone, Brown, Calhoun, Christian, Clinton, Coles, Crawford, DeKalb, DeWitt, Fayette, Greene, Hancock, Jasper, Lee, Livingston, Macon, Massac, Monroe, Morgan, Pulaski, Putnam, Richland, Saline, St. Clair, Wabash, Washington, and Winnebago.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with university and college parties as well as college sports teams, large gatherings and events, bars and clubs, weddings and funerals, family gatherings, long-term care facilities, correctional centers, schools, and cases among the community at large, especially people in their 20s.

Public health officials are observing businesses blatantly disregarding mitigation measures, people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings. Mayors, local law enforcement, state's attorneys, and other community leaders can be influential in ensuring citizens and businesses follow best practices.

Several counties are taking swift action to help slow spread of the virus, including increasing testing opportunities, stressing the importance of testing to providers, hiring additional contact tracers, working with schools, meeting with local leaders, educating businesses and large venues about the importance of mitigation measures, and distributing donated masks.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

October 2, 1:10 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 2,206 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 47 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 297,646 cases, including 8,743 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 25 - October 1 is 3.4%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 72,691 specimens for a total of 5,763,128. As of last night, 1,678 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 373 patients were in the ICU and 162 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

October 1, 5:20 p.m.

One Additional Death in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported on Thursday an additional death - a man in his 50's who tested positive with COVID-19 on September 25th. There are 38 new cases of COVID-19 in Sangamon County. 12 people are currently hospitalized with the disease. There have been 2,521 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 47 deaths.

October 1, 1:45 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Thursday reported 2,166 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 295,440 cases, including 8,696 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 24 - September 30 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 65,615 specimens for a total of 5,690,437. As of last night, 1,635 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 359 patients were in the ICU and 149 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 30, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 28 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 12 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,483 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 46 deaths.

September 30, 1:20 p.m.

IDPH COVID-19 Halloween Festivities Guidance

If you think you could have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, do not participate in any in-person Halloween activities.

Trick-or-treating:

- Anyone participating in trick-or-treating, including those passing out candy, should maintain 6-feet of social distance and wear proper face coverings.

- Consider leaving individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) on a table in driveways or in front of walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space where 6-feet of distance can be maintained.

- A Halloween costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth mask. Ensure that breathing is not impaired if a cloth mask is worn under a costume mask. If so, discard the costume mask.

- Trick-or-treat in groups with household members only.

- Candy collected during trick-or-treating should not be eaten until after handwashing.

An alternative to traditional trick-or-treating is to set up in a large parking lot or other outdoor setting with tables with individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) where participants with a parent/guardian can parade past while still keeping 6-feet of distance and wearing a face covering. It's suggested to offer reserved time slots to limit everyone showing up at once.

Haunted Houses:

- Halloween haunted houses currently are not allowed in Restore Illinois Phase 4 Guidelines.

- Consider open-air, one-way haunted forests or haunted walks where 6-feet of distance can be maintained and face coverings are used.

Adult costume parties, social gatherings, Halloween parties at bars:

- Gatherings of more than 50 people or 50% or more of a building's maximum occupancy are prohibited. (Lower limits may apply for regions in additional mitigation.)

- The more time you spend at a gathering, the closer the contact, the more people, the higher your risk of exposure to COVID-19.

- Follow small social gathering safety tips from IDPH.

Pumpkin patches and orchards:

- Cloth face coverings and social distancing should be enforced.

- Use hand sanitizer before handling pumpkins, apples, and other produce.

Hayrides:

- Hayrides should not exceed 50% capacity with parties spaced at least six feet apart.

- Wear face coverings at all times when around people not from your household.

After participating in any of the above activities, if you think that you may have been exposed during your celebration, take extra precautions for 14 days after the event to help protect others.

September 30, 12:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH Statewide Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Wednesday reported 2,273 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 35 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 293,274 cases, including 8,672 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 23 - September 29 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 58,546 specimens for a total of 5,624,822. As of last night, 1,632 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 378 patients were in the ICU and 152 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

IDPH has been closely monitoring the Region 6 data. As has been noted, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is performing repeated saliva testing for staff and students. This is resulting in a tremendous number of tests, which can average up to 20% of all tests done in the state during some weeks. Because of this high volume, the positivity rate for Region 6 could be overshadowed by what is happening at UIUC. Therefore, in addition to providing data for Region 6, IDPH is now presenting data for Region 6 without Champaign County. However, Champaign County will still be required to implement mitigation efforts if regional metrics are tripped in Region 6.

In doing this, IDPH has found that Region 6, with Champaign County included, is seeing a 2.0% 7-day rolling test positivity average. Without Champaign County, Region 6 is seeing a 7.2%, which puts the region at risk for needing to implement additional mitigation measures, including no indoor bar service or dinning at restaurants, and limiting the size of event gatherings. IDPH is encouraging local leaders and communities in Region 6 to begin taking action now to reduce the test positivity rate, which includes making sure people are wearing masks in public, maintaining social distance, and not gathering in large groups.

September 29, 6:20 p.m.

One Additional COVID-19 Death in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 23 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, and the death of a woman in her 80's who tested positive on August 31st.

14 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,455 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 46 deaths.

September 29, 4:55 p.m.

COVID-19 Resurgence Mitigations to Take Effect in Region 1 on Saturday, October 3

Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are announcing COVID-19 resurgence mitigations will be implemented in Region 1, the northwestern most counties in Illinois, beginning Saturday, October 3.

The region is seeing a 7-day rolling average test positivity rate of 8% or above for three consecutive days, which exceeds the threshold set for establishing mitigation measures in the region under the state's Restore Illinois Resurgence Plan. This announcement follows last week's warnings to local leaders that additional mitigation measures would be implemented if the region continued to see an increase in cases. Region 1 includes Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Jo Daviess, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago counties.

In the past week, Region 1 also had an early indication of increasing hospital admissions for COVID-like-illness. Although this increase has not yet reached the threshold level, it indicates more severe illness is increasing and IDPH will continue to monitor the region's hospital capacity.

Mitigation measures include no indoor dining at restaurants or service at bars, all outdoor dining closes at 11:00 p.m, gatherings limited to 25 guests or 25 percent of overall room capacity, and gaming and casinos close at 11:00 p.m., are limited to 25 percent capacity, and follow mitigations for bars and restaurants, if applicable

These mitigations do not currently apply to schools.

IDPH will track the positivity rate in Region 1 to determine if mitigations can be relaxed, if additional mitigations are required, or if current mitigations should remain in place. If the positivity rate averages less than or equal to 6.5% for three consecutive days, then Regions 1 will return to Phase 4 mitigations under the Restore Illinois Plan. If the positivity rate averages between 6.5% and 8%, the new mitigations will remain in place and unchanged. If the positivity rate averages greater than or equal to 8% after 14 days, more stringent mitigations can be applied to further reduce spread of the virus.

September 29, 4:35 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 1,362 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 23 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 291,001 cases, including 8,637 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 22 - September 28 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 45,624 specimens for a total of 5,566,276. As of last night, 1,535 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 363 patients were in the ICU and 151 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 28, 3:30 p.m.

The Latest From Sangamon County

Since Friday, the county has reported 61 new positive cases for an overall total of 2,432. A total of 404 people are isolated and eight are hospitalized.

September 28, 12:30 p.m.

Statewide Update for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 1,709 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 13 additional confirmed deaths.

• Coles County: 1 female 80s
• Cook County: 1 male 30s, 1 female 50s, 1 male 50s, 1 male 60s, 1 male 70s, 2 males 80s
• Crawford County: 1 male 70s
• DeWitt County: 1 male 80s
• Madison County: 1 female 80s
• Marion County: 1 male 80s
• Richland County: 1 female 90s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 289,639 cases, including 8,614 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 21 – September 27 is 3.7%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 41,142 specimens for a total of 5,520,652. As of last night, 1,491 people in Illinois.

September 25, 5:25 p.m.

Sangamon County Update for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 51 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 8 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,371 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 25, 2:50 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 2,514 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 283,885 cases, including 8,563 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 18 - September 24 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 69,793 specimens for a total of 5,363,471. As of last night, 1,637 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 371 patients were in the ICU and 124 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

17 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports that 17 counties in Illinois are currently considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase. The number of counties at a warning level is lower than last week, when 24 counties were on the list.

Seventeen counties are currently reported at a warning level – Bond, Boone, Cass, Christian, Clinton, Crawford, DeWitt, Fayette, Grundy, Hamilton, Macon, Menard, Peoria, Putnam, Washington, Wayne, and Winnebago.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with university and college parties as well as college sports teams, large gatherings and events, bars and clubs, weddings and funerals, long-term care facilities, correctional centers, schools, and cases among the community at large.

Public health officials are observing people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings. Some communities lack access to convenient testing before people become symptomatic. In some counties, local law enforcement and states’ attorneys are not enforcing important mitigation measures like social distancing and the wearing of face coverings. Additionally, some people refuse to participate in contact tracing and are not providing information on close contacts or answering the phone.

Several counties are taking swift action and implementing mitigation measures to help slow spread of the virus, including increasing testing opportunities, stressing the importance of testing to providers, hiring additional contact tracers, working with schools, meeting with local leaders, and educating businesses and large venues about the importance of mitigation measures.

A map and information of each county’s status can be found on the IDPH website at http://https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

September 24, 4:45 p.m.

Area Update

The Macon County Joint Crisis Communication Team (CCT) on Thursday reported the death of one Macon County resident with COVID-19, a man in his 80s. There have been 20 newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. Since the start of the pandemic, 1,460 Macon County residents have tested positive for COVID-19.

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports 23 new cases of COVID-19. 7 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,323 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 24, 12:20 p.m.

Daily Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 2,257 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 281,371 cases, including 8,538 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 17 - September 23 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 62,071 specimens for a total of 5,293,678. As of last night, 1,713 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 400 patients were in the ICU and 155 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 23, 6:20 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 23 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,300 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 23, 1:30 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Wednesday reported 1,848 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 22 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 279,114 cases, including 8,508 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 16 - September 22 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 46,391 specimens for a total of 5,231,607. As of last night, 1,563 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 351 patients were in the ICU and 144 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 22, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 15 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,277 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 22, 12:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH Statewide Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Tuesday reported 1,531 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 277,266 cases, including 8,486 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 15 - September 21 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 41,829 specimens for a total of 5,185,216. As of last night, 1,455 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 367 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 21, 4:00 p.m.

Area Update

Sangamon County officials announced 44 more cases of COVID-19 as of Monday. The county total since the pandemic began is 2,262 with 45 deaths.

Macon County reported 23 newly confirmed cases. Morgan County had 5 more cases confirmed from Saturday through Monday. All are isolating at home. Also, a Jacksonville Correctional Center inmate died Sunday at at a healthcare setting outside of Morgan County.

September 21, 1:00 p.m.

Monday Statewide Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health today reported 1,477 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 7 additional confirmed deaths.

• Cook County: 1 male 50s, 2 females 70s, 1 male 70s, 1 female 80s
• Ford County: 1 male 60s
• Macon County: 1 female 80s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 275,735 cases, including 8,457 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 14 – September 20 is 3.5%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 38,234 specimens for a total of 5,143,387. As of last night, 1,436 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 364 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 18, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 18 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 9 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,188 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 18, 4:50 p.m.

Infant Dies of COVID-19

A DeKalb County infant is among the latest reported COVID-19 deaths in Illinois. After a C-D-C review, the DeKalb County Health Department confirmed Friday the death of an infant younger than one. The infant was previously reported as a positive case. The department says the child’s identity is not being released to protect the privacy of the family.

September 18, 1:10 p.m.

24 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 24 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Twenty-four counties are currently reported at a warning level - Bond, Bureau, Cass, Clinton, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, DeWitt, Edwards, Effingham, Greene, Jasper, Jo Daviess, Lawrence, Madison, Marion, Rock Island, St. Clair, Shelby, Washington, Wayne, Williamson, Wabash, and Union.

Public health officials are observing people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings. Some communities lack access to convenient testing before people become symptomatic. In some counties, local law enforcement and states' attorneys are not enforcing important mitigation measures like social distancing and the wearing of face coverings. Additionally, some people refuse to participate in contact tracing and are not providing information on close contacts or answering the phone.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.

September 18, 1:00 p.m.

Friday's Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported on Friday 2,120 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 270,327 cases, including 8,411 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 11 - September 17 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 61,918 specimens for a total of 4,982,856. As of last night, 1,481 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 329 patients were in the ICU and 149 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 17

45th Death from COVID-19 in Sangamon County

On Thursday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported one death of a patient diagnosed with COVID-19 - a man in his 50s who tested positive on August 23rd.

15 new cases of COVID-19 were reported. 9 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,172 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 45 deaths.

September 17, 12:20 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update from IDPH

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Thursday reported 2,056 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 268,207 cases, including 8,392 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 10 - September 16 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 57,800 specimens for a total of 4,920,938. As of last night, 1,558 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 359 patients were in the ICU and 144 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 16, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 20 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 9 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,157 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 44 deaths.

12 positive cases that were previously reported will no longer be included in the totals, as the cases have been transferred out of Sangamon County.

September 16, 12:50 p.m.

IDPH Daily COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Wednesday reported that more than 52,000 tests were processed in the latest 24 hour reporting period, for a total of 4,863,138. There are 1,941 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 35 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 266,151 cases, including 8,367 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 9 - September 15 is 3.7%. As of last night, 1,565 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 345 patients were in the ICU and 143 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 15, 3:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. 9 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,149 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 44 deaths.

September 15, 2:10 p.m.

HSHS Medical Group Offers Free Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing

With CARES Act government funding for COVID-19 testing, HSHS Medical Group says it’s offering free COVID-19 testing at select drive-thru sites until further notice.

Tests Available by Appointment Only. Registration through MyChart is required for testing.

People with symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 – or people who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 - or - need a COVID-19 screening in order to be able to return to work or school, you can receive a free COVID-19 assessment and testing:

Anyone who wishes to be tested has to schedule an appointment through HSHS Medical Group’s online patient portal, MyChart.

It’s not necessary to be an established HSHS Medical Group patient to set up an account on MyChart or to access a free test.

MyChart can be accessed at HSHSMGCovidTesting.org or downloaded as an app on Apple or Google Play. It takes just minutes to set up an account, complete a short assessment and register for a test.

The Springfield testing site is located in the parking lot of Scheels, on South MacArthur

The Decatur testing site is located in the parking lot of HSHS Medical Group Family & Sports Medicine, on Lost Bridge Rd.

More details and information at http://HSHSMGCovidTesting.org

September 15, 12:10 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Tuesday announced 1,466 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 264,210 cases, including 8,332 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 8 - September 14 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 39,031 specimens for a total of 4,810,827. As of last night, 1,584 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 373 patients were in the ICU and 144 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 14

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update for Monday

On Monday, the Sangamon County Departmrnt of Public Health reported 2 new cases of COVID-19. Since the pandemic began, there have been 2,142 confirmed cases of the disease in Sangamon County, including 44 deaths.

September 14, 12:00 p.m.

Monday Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,373 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including five additional confirmed deaths.

• Cook County: 1 female 70s
• Madison County: 1 female 70s, 1 female 80s
• Randolph County: 1 female 80s
• Rock Island County: 1 male 60s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 262,744 cases, including 8,314 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 7 – September 13 is 3.6%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 35,930 specimens for a total of 4,771,796. As of last night, 1,431 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 335 patients were in the ICU and 131 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

Sangamon County reported two additional cases as of Monday. 422 individuals remain isolated in the county with nine people currently hospitalized.

September 11, 4:10 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Update for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 31 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 20 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,117 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 43 deaths.

September 11, 2:00 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Report for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Friday 2,145 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 32 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 257,788 cases, including 8,273 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 4 - September 10 is 3.9%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 56,661 specimens for a total of 4,632,382. As of last night, 1,619 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 359 patients were in the ICU and 155 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 11, 1:45 p.m.

30 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 30 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Thirty counties are currently reported at a warning level - Bond, Bureau, Cass, Clinton, Coles, Crawford, DeKalb, DuPage, Effingham, Greene, Grundy, Hancock, Henderson, Jackson, Jasper, Jersey, Lawrence, Madison, McLean, Monroe, Morgan, Pulaski, Schuyler, Shelby, Stark, St. Clair, Tazewell, Vermilion, Washington, Williamson.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with college parties, weddings, large gatherings, bars and clubs, long-term care facilities and other congregate settings, travel to neighboring states, and spread among members of the same household who are not isolating at home. Cases connected to schools are beginning to be reported. General transmission of the virus in the community is also increasing.

Public health officials are observing people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings. In some counties, local law enforcement and states' attorneys are not enforcing important mitigation measures like social distancing and the wearing of face coverings. Additionally, some people refuse to participate in contact tracing and are not providing information on close contacts or answering the phone. Individuals are also waiting to get tested believing their symptoms are allergies or some other cause.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

September 10, 4:10 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 28 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. 19 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,088 total cases in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 43 deaths.

September 10, 12:45 p.m.

Daily Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Thursday announced 1,953 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 28 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 255,643 cases, including 8,242 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 3 - September 9 is 3.8%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 48,982 specimens for a total of 4,575,721. As of last night, 1,609 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 346 patients were in the ICU and 141 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 10, 12:30 p.m.

$16 Million Investment to Connect Out of Work Illinoisans COVID-19 Response Jobs

Today, Governor J.B. Pritzker announced a new $16.6 million investment to expand job opportunities for Illinoisans who have lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through two new grants received from the U.S. Department of Labor, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will distribute funding to place, train, and hire nearly 1,300 residents for an array of jobs related to the ongoing pandemic response.

The funding includes an $8.3 million grant from the federal Disaster Recovery Grant Program and an $8.3 million grant from the federal Employment Recovery Grant - both part of the National Dislocated Worker Program. The grants will provide out of work Illinoisans with training and employment in jobs that assist local disaster relief programs and industries in high demand amidst the pandemic. Funded positions include COVID-19 recovery-related temporary jobs to help mitigate COVID-19 in communities, such as contact tracers, COVID-19 protocol workers, building sanitization workers, temperature screeners, and food preparation and distribution workers identified by local communities.

The State will distribute funding to 12 Local Workforce Innovation Areas (LWIAs) spanning 7 regions across Illinois. State of Illinois LWIAs represent employers, local government, community colleges, and community-based organizations which partner with DCEO to provide year-round training and support to communities across the state.

DCEO will partner with local workforce agency partners to assist with filling roles in high need industry areas evolving as a result of COVID-19. The 1,300 positions represent a mix of new and existing roles - with Disaster Recovery grants supporting contact tracers, community health coordinators, food distribution and emergency pantry workers, and COVID-19 custodians. Employment Recovery grant funds will be leveraged to seek out low-wage dislocated workers and provide vocational training and work-based learning that provides skills and competencies in expanding occupations and industries connected to the COVID-19 response.

Training and hiring for new workforce programs are expected to begin this fall, with the start time of each program varying by location. Participants will either undergo some form of training and/or receive supportive employment services, with many beginning jobs shortly after training is complete. Local workforce agencies will prioritize applicants impacted by layoff or termination during the COVID-19 crisis at the time of their application.

A full list of COVID-19 workforce training grantees as well as their program offerings is available on the DCEO website as well as Get Hired Illinois - the state's one-stop-shop portal to connect Illinoisans with available training and hiring opportunities with growing industries during the COVID-19 crisis.

September 9, 6:30 p.m.

Illinois' Rolling Positivity Rate Drops To Lowest Level in More Than a Month

Capitol News Illinois reported today that the COVID-19 seven-day rolling positivity rate was 3.7% on Wednesday. This comes as one of the two regions under more strict regulations also saw its positivity remain under the state's eight-percent threshold for a fourth straight day.

Region Seven, which includes Kankakee and Will Counties, now has a 7.4% positivity rate. Region Four, which covers the Metro East area, is still above the eight-percent threshold for restrictions at 9.9%.

Governor JB Pritzker says his administration is closely watching spikes in positivity rates on college campuses across Illinois, and is working to provide funding for contact tracing teams in those areas and others where there is still a need.

When it comes to a potential vaccine for the novel coronavirus, Pritzker says the state is setting up plans for its distribution - making sure the most vulnerable populations are placed in a priority group.

September 9, 4:20 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 27 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 19 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,061 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 43 deaths.

September 9, 12:45 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,337 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 253,690 cases, including 8,214 deaths. The preliminary preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 2 - September 8 is 3.7%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 48,029 specimens for a total of 4,526,739. As of last night, 1,580 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 357 patients were in the ICU and 133 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 8, 4:00 p.m.

Sangamon County Reports Two Deaths

Sangamon County is reporting two more deaths from COVID-19. One was a woman in her 70s and the other a man in his 90s. Both tested positive on August 28. The county’s total deaths from the disease is 42.

On Tuesday, another 24 cases were announced. 475 people are isolated. 19 are hospitalized.

September 8, 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday's Statewide Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 1,392 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including seven additional confirmed deaths.

• Clinton County: 1 male 40s, 1 male 80s
• Cook County: 1 male 30s
• Jackson County: 1 male 40s
• Montgomery County: 1 female 90s
• Williamson County: 1 male 70s, 1 female 90s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 252,353 cases, including 8,186 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from September 1 – September 7 is 4.0%. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 31,363 specimens for a total of 4,478,710. As of last night, 1,504 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 343 patients were in the ICU and 133 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

September 7, 3:50 p.m.

Weekend Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 68 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday and Sunday. 21 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 2,018 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

September 4, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 57 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday. 21 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 1,954 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

A spokesman for the county says that one of the reasons for the high number of new cases in a single day is due to a backlog of test result data most of this week.

September 4, 2:10 p.m.

29 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 29 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Twenty-nine counties are currently reported at a warning level - Greene, McLean, Boone, Bureau, Clinton, Coles, Cumberland, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Henry, Jasper, Jefferson, Jersey, Lake, Lawrence, Madison, Monroe, Pulaski, Randolph, Rock Island, Shelby, Stark, St. Clair, Union, Wabash, Warren, Williamson, Will.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.

September 4, 2:00 p.m.

Backlog of Tests Worked Through - 5,368 New Confirmed Cases

Earlier this week, a slowdown in data processing within Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) systems affected the reporting of tests due to the large volume of testing occurring in Illinois. All available resources were deployed to improve the data systems, which are now fixed, and the backlog created by the slowdown has been cleared. Two system upgrades were put in place and the systems now have significantly faster processing capacity. Although the slowdown did delay the reporting of some additional aggregate numbers, it did not affect the reporting of positive or negative results to individuals in any way.

IDPH today announced 5,368 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 29 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 245,371 cases, including 8,143 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 28 - September 3 is 4.1%. Using a 7-day rolling average for this metric helps account for any variation in day to day data collection, such as a data processing slowdown, and provides the public and decisions makers with a consistent picture of trends over time. As of last night, 1,621 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 360 patients were in the ICU and 155 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 149,273 specimens for a total of 4,309,941.

September 3, 4:15 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 17 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. 19 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 1,898 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

September 3, 12:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,360 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 240,003 cases, including 8,115 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 27 - September 2 is 4.4%. As of last night, 1,620 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 360 patients were in the ICU and 144 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 40,795 specimens for a total of 4,160,668.

The IDPH is reporting a slowdown in data processing within IDPH systems that has affected its reporting of tests this week due to the large volume of testing occurring in Illinois. All available resources are being deployed to improve our data systems throughput and they anticipate improvement in data processing as the week proceeds. Although the slowdown has delayed the reporting of some additional aggregate numbers, this has not affected the reporting of positive or negative results to individuals in any way.

September 2, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 38 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. 21 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 1,882 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

September 2, 12:50 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Wednesday announced 2,128 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 27 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 238,643 cases, including 8,091 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 26 - September 1 is 4.5%. As of last night, 1,596 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 347 patients were in the ICU and 142 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 32,751 specimens for a total of 4,119,873.

September 1, 6:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 26 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. 21 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 1,846 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

September 1, 6:00 p.m.

More COVID-19 Mitigation Orders in Metro East

Additional COVID-19 mitigation efforts will be implemented in the Metro East area of Illinois as the area shows a seven-day positivity rate of 9.6% as a result of coronavirus testing. The Illinois Department of Public Health on Tuesday announced that beginning Wednesday, bars in the area east of St. Louis can no longer offer indoor service, no indoor dining or bar service can be offered by restaurants and meetings, social events and other gatherings are limited to lesser of 25 guests or 25% of overall room capacity.

September 1, 2:30 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,492 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 39 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 236,515 cases, including 8,064 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 22,961 specimens for a total of 4,087,122. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 24 - August 30 is 4.3%. As of last night, 1,513 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 362 patients were in the ICU and 146 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 31, 4:15 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Monday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 19 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday. 21 people are currently hospitalized with the disease in the county. There have been 1,822 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

August 31, 12:30 p.m.

Monday's Statewide Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced on Monday 1,668 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 7 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 235,023 cases, including 8,026 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 47,379 specimens for a total of 4,064,161. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 24 - August 30 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,492 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 347 patients were in the ICU and 157 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 31, 12:30 p.m.

Weekend COVID-19 Update for Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Dept. of Public Health reported 11 new positive cases of COVID-19 for Saturday and 22 new cases for Sunday.

August 28, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County Reports 40th Death

The Sangamon County Dept. of Public health on Friday reported the 40th fatality due to COVID-19 in the county, a woman in her 80s who tested positive for the disease on August 15th.

The Dept. also reported 42 new cases of COVID-19. 18 people in the county are hospitalized with COVID-19. There have been 1,776 confirmed cases of the disease in Sangamon County since the pandemic began, including 40 deaths.

August 28, 12:50 p.m.

30 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

On Friday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported 30 counties in Illinois are now considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Thirty counties are currently reported at a warning level - Bureau, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Cook, Cumberland, Effingham, Fayette, Greene, Grundy, Henderson, Henry, Jasper, Jersey, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Madison, Monroe, Morgan, Perry, Pike, Randolph, Sangamon, Shelby, St. Clair, Union, Warren, White, Will, and Williamson.

Although the reasons for counties reaching a warning level varies, some of the common factors for an increase in cases and outbreaks are associated with weddings, large gatherings, long-term care facilities and other congregate settings, travel to neighboring states, bars, and spread among members of the same household who are not isolating at home. Cases connected to schools are beginning to be reported. General transmission of the virus in the community is also increasing.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

August 28, 12:45 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 2,149 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 229,483 cases, including 7,997 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 48,383 specimens for a total of 3,924,305. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 21 - August 27 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,546 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 352 patients were in the ICU and 132 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 27, 4:00 p.m.

Sangamon County Daily COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 19 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. 13 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1,736 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 39 deaths.

August 27, 2:00 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Thursday announced 1,707 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 24 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 227,334 cases, including 7,977 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 44,510 specimens for a total of 3,875,922. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 20 - August 26 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,631 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 390 patients were in the ICU and 151 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 26, 4:35 p.m.

Additional COVID-19 Death in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Dept. of Public health on Wednesday reported the 39th fatality due to COVID-19 in the county, a man in his 90s who tested positive for the disease on August 19th.

The Dept. also reported 26 new cases, noting that a reporting error on August 1st and 2nd has resulted in 25 previously reported positive cases being removed from the total number of known cases to date, and that one case has been transferred to McLean County and will no longer be counted. The current number of positive cases in Sangamon County stands at 1,719.

August 26, 2:00 p.m.

IDPH Daily Coronavirus Update

On Wednesday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 2,157 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 37 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 225,627 cases, including 7,954 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 50,362 specimens for a total of 3,831,412. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 19 - August 25 is 4.0%. As of last night, 1,573 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 350 patients were in the ICU and 132 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 25, 5:15 p.m.

New COVID-19 Death in Macon County

Officials in Macon county today reported the death of the 26th Macon County resident with COVID-19, a woman in her 70s. Since the last update, there have been 16 newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county, bringing the total number to 871 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Macon County.

August 25, 5:10 p.m.

Sangamon County Daily Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 35 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. 10 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1719 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 38 deaths.

August 25, 2:20 p.m.

Updated Safety Guidelines for Illinois Restuarants and Bars

Today the State of Illinois announced revised guidelines for restaurants and bar establishments statewide to operate safely and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Based on a recent increase in cases, these latest guidelines will require patrons to wear a mask during any interaction with wait staff, food service workers and other employees at bars and restaurants. Face coverings must be worn over the nose and mouth when patrons are approached and served by staff, including but not limited to when employees take patrons orders, deliver food and beverages, and service tables. This guidance will also apply to other facilities with food services areas that are currently subject to the Restore Illinois guidance, such as indoor recreational facilities, museums and entertainment venues.

New guidelines go into effect Wednesday, August 26th and will require face coverings to be worn both in indoor and outdoor dining settings in all eleven regions in the state. Full guidelines may be found on the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) website.

Patrons are currently required to wear a mask whenever on premises, except while eating and drinking at the table or bar. The new guidelines ensure that while seated, interactions between business staff and patrons can happen safely to prevent possible spread of the virus.

To assist bars and restaurants with implementing new safety measures, DCEO has provided an updated industry toolkit on their website. The toolkit provides revised health guidelines materials, including new signage that may be displayed at restaurants and bars to encourage compliance:

https://dceocovid19resources.com/restore-illinois

August 25, 2:15 p.m.

Daily Statewide Coronavirus Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Tuesday 1,680 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 29 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 223,470 cases, including 7,917 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 40,859 specimens for a total of 3,781,050. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 18 - August 24 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,549 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 345 patients were in the ICU and 135 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 24, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

On Monday, the Sangamon County Dept. of Public Health reported 15 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county. Currently, 5 people are hospitalized with the disease. There have been 1,689 cases in the county to date, including 38 deaths.

August 24, 3:30 p.m.

IDPH COVID-19 Update for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,612 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 8 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 221,790 cases, including 7,888 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 36,155 specimens for a total of 3,740,191. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 17 - August 23 is 4.2%. As of last night, 1,529 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 334 patients were in the ICU and 141 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 22 & 23

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update for the Weekend

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported the following for Saturday and Sunday:

On Saturday, August 22nd, 29 new positive cases. On Sunday, August 23rd, 24 new positive cases, for a total of 1674 cases in the county to date, including 38 deaths.

August 21, 6:15 p.m.

Macon County Reports One Additional Death

The Joint Crisis Communication Team is saddened to announce the death of the 25th Macon County resident with COVID-19. This person was a female in her 80s. Since the Team's previous release, there have been 13 newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Macon County. Overall there have been 801 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Macon County.

August 21, 4:40 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Friday

On Friday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 24 new confirmed cases of the disease. 5 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19. To date, there have been 1,621 total cases, including 38 deaths in Sangamon County.

August 21, 1:40 p.m.

20 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

On Friday the Illinois Department of Public Health reported that 20 counties in Illinois are now considered to be at a warning level for COVID-19. A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of the disease increase.

Twenty counties are currently reported at a warning level - Bureau, Cass, Clay, Clinton, Franklin, Greene, Grundy, Hancock, Henderson, Jefferson, Logan, Madison, Monroe, Moultrie, Randolph, St. Clair, Union, White, Will, and Williamson.

These counties saw cases or outbreaks associated with weddings, businesses, neighborhood gatherings, parties, long-term care facilities and other congregate settings, travel to neighboring states, bars, sports camps, and spread among members of the same household who are not isolating at home. Cases connected to schools are also beginning to be reported.

Public health officials are observing people not social distancing or using face coverings. Additionally, there are reports of individuals who are ill attributing their symptoms to allergies or other illnesses, or not being forthcoming about their symptoms or close contacts.

Several counties are taking swift action and implementing mitigation measures to help slow spread of the virus, including working to increase testing in their communities and launching mask campaigns such as "Masks on Faces Keeps Places Open."

IDPH uses numerous indicators when determining if a county is experiencing stable COVID-19 activity, or if there are warning signs of increased COVID-19 risk in the county. These metrics are intended to be used for local level awareness to help local leaders, businesses, local health departments, and the public make informed decisions about personal and family gatherings, as well as what activities they choose to do. The metrics are updated weekly, from the Sunday-Saturday of the prior week and can be found at https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

August 21, 1:25 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update for Friday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 2,208 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 24 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 215,929 cases, including 7,857 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 51,736 specimens for a total of 3,592,919. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 14 - August 20 is 4.3%. As of last night, 1,526 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 351 patients were in the ICU and 121 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 20, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County Reports One Additional Death

On Thursday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported the death of a patient with COVID-19, a woman in her 90's who tested positive on August 13th. She was an inpatient at Memorial Medical Center.

The Dept. also reported an additional 26 new confirmed cases of the disease. 6 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19. To date, there have been 1,597 total cases, including 38 deaths in Sangamon County.

August 20, 1:30 p.m.

IDPH Reports More Than 51,000 Tests in One Day

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,832 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 27 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 213,721 cases, including 7,833 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 51,612 specimens for a total of 3,541,183. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 13 - August 19 is 4.4%. As of last night, 1,519 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 357 patients were in the ICU and 124 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 19, 5:15 p.m.

University of Illinois Coronavirus Test Approved By FDA

A faster and cheaper coronavirus test developed at the University of Illinois has been given FDA emergency use authorization. It’s already in use on U of I campuses.

Getting more people tested for the virus has been a goal for months, but it’s expensive and takes time. The U of I’s test is faster, cheaper, and less invasive, as it requires only a saliva sample. Students, faculty and staff are now being tested with classes getting ready to resume. Governor J.B. Pritzker says the FDA decision means use of the test could expand soon.

U of I and state officials warn the test is no substitute for prevention efforts such as social distancing, washing hands and wearing masks.

August 19, 5:00 p.m.

Daily COVID-19 Update for Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported Wednesday 45 new cases of COVID-19. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1571 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 37 deaths.

August 19, 1:50 p.m.

IDPH Daily COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 2,295 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 211,889 cases, including 7,806 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 50,299 specimens for a total of 3,489,571. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 12 - August 18 is 4.4%. As of last night, 1,519 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 334 patients were in the ICU and 144 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 18, 4:30 p.m.

One Additional COVID-19 Death in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported Tuesday one additional death of someone confirmed to have COVID-19, a woman in her 80s who tested positive for the disease on July 28th. The county also reported 27 new cases of the disease. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1526 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 37 deaths.

August 18, 1:40 p.m.

Christian County COVID-19 Update

Six of the nine long term care and assisted living facilities in Christian County have active cases of the coronavirus disease. It’s believed most of the cases have come from caretakers and workers being exposed outside of those locations. Overall, more than 100 people in the county have tested positive and are isolated.

August 18, 1:35 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,740 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 27 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 209,594 cases, including 7,782 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 34,175 specimens for a total of 3,439,272. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 11 - August 17 is 4.3%. As of last night, 1,510 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 335 patients were in the ICU and 128 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 17, 6:10 p.m.

Morgan County Reports Two Additional COVID-19 Deaths

On Monday the Morgan County Coroner’s Office in conjunction with the Morgan County Office of Emergency Management and the Morgan County Department of Public Health confirmed 2 additional deaths of persons with COVID-19. The 16th case, a 91 year old female, died at Memorial Medical Center on August 16th. The 17th case, a 78 year old female, died at Jacksonville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation on August 16th.

August 17, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Report for Monday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported Monday 7 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 7 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1499 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 36 deaths.

August 17, 12:30 p.m.

Monday's Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,773 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 12 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 207,854 cases, including 7,756 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 38,246 specimens for a total of 3,405,097. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 10 - August 16 is 4.2%. As of last night, 1,544 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 340 patients were in the ICU and 126 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 16, 5:15 p.m.

Sangamon County Dept. of Public Health Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reported 36 new cases of COVID-19 Saturday and another 22 new cases Sunday.

8 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1492 total cases in Sangamon county since the pandemic began, including 36 deaths.

August 14, 4:10 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Medical Report for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced on Friday 53 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 8 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1434 total cases since the pandemic began, including 36 deaths.

August 14, 1:35 p.m.

14 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 14 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Fourteen counties are currently reported at a warning level – Bureau, Cass, Clinton, Franklin, Greene, Grundy, Hancock, Jefferson, Kane, LaSalle, Moultrie, Perry, Union, Will.

These counties saw cases or outbreaks associated with weddings, businesses, birthday parties, long-term care facilities and other congregate settings, bars, sports camps, and spread among members of the same household. Public health officials are seeing people in some communities are not wearing masks, or if they are, they are being worn incorrectly.

Local health departments are finding it challenging to obtain the information necessary to halt local transmission, by quickly identifying exposures from contacts of cases and businesses. Inconsistent messaging from local elected leaders are contributing to on-going transmission in some communities where there is little public concern for consequences or enforcement of social distancing, banning large gatherings, or quarantine/isolation orders.

Several counties are taking swift action and implementing mitigation measures to help slow spread of the virus. Examples include increasing the availability in testing in their community and working with local businesses to educate and spot check mask wearing and guideline adherence.

IDPH uses numerous indicators when determining if a county is experiencing stable COVID-19 activity, or if there are warning signs of increased COVID-19 risk in the county.

A map and information of each county’s status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.

August 14, 1:25 p.m.

Friday's IDPH Statewide Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 2,264 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 202,691 cases, including 7,721 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 49,541 specimens for a total of 3,285,348. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 8 - August 14 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,612 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 345 patients were in the ICU and 126 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

Region 4 (Metro East) of the 11 COVID-19 Regions is seeing increases in test positivity rates and could surpass the resurgence metrics in the coming days. If the region experiences three consecutive days of 8% test positivity (7-day rolling average), the State will implement mitigation measures. A list of mitigation options can be found on the http://coronavirus.illinois.gov website.

August 13, 5:35 p.m.

Sangamon County Reports Another COVID-19 Death

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced on Thursday one additional COVID-19 related death, a woman in her 90's who tested positive on August 9th, and was an in-patient at Memorial Medical Center.

The county also reported 30 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 8 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1381 total cases since the pandemic began, including 36 deaths.

August 13, 2:45 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update - Over 200,000 Cases Statewide To Date

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,834 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 24 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 200,427 cases, including 7,696 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 46,006 specimens for a total of 3,235,807. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 6 - August 12 is 4.0%. As of last night, 1,628 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 383 patients were in the ICU and 127 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 12, 4:45 p.m.

Sangamon County Reports One Additional Death

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced on Wednesday one additional COVID-19 related death, a male in his 90's who tested positive on August 9th, and was an in-patient at Memorial Medical Center.

The county also reported 30 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 8 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1351 total cases since the pandemic began, including 35 deaths.

August 12, 2:30 p.m.

Pritzker Extends Deadline to Apply for Nutrition Benefits

Today, Governor Pritzker announced that the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has extended the deadline for Illinoisans to apply for nutrition benefits to August 31. Eligible Illinois residents can receive food benefits totaling $342 per eligible student. Approximately 390,000 eligible students across the State of Illinois have not yet applied for Illinois Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) benefits for the 2020-2021 school year.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) authorized and will fund the P-EBT program, which will bring food benefits to all school-aged children who are eligible for free or reduced meals at schools through the National School Lunch Program. The benefit is issued to all SNAP households with school-aged children.

The P-EBT program has already provided more than 730,000 children in Illinois with more than $246 million in additional nutrition benefits. Benefits are calculated using a $5.70 per day and per student calculation.

Eligible Benefit Amounts are as follows:

• $182.40= March & April 2020
• $119.70= May 2020
• $39.90= June 2020

These benefits apply to households with school-aged children who were eligible for free or reduced meals from March 2020 through June 2020 when Illinois schools were operating remotely due to COVID-19. Those who did not receive SNAP benefits last spring are able to submit a simplified application for P-EBT benefits using the ABE.Illinois.gov online portal or by completing a paper application which is available at the IDHS website at dhs.state.il.us.

For more information, go to https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=124142.

August 12, 12:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH New Coronavirus Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,645 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 16 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 198,593 cases, including 7,672 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 42,098 specimens for a total of 3,189,801. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 5 - August 11 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,525 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 357 patients were in the ICU and 129 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 11, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 51 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Tuesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1321 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 11, 1:10 p.m.

IDPH Daily Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,549 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 196,948 cases, including 7,657 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 41,362 specimens for a total of 3,147,703. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 4 - August 10 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,459 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 336 patients were in the ICU and 127 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 10, 5:15 p.m.

Five Additional COVID-19 Deaths in Morgan County

The Morgan County Coroner is reporting 5 additional deaths of people diagnosed with COVID-19. All five were residents at Jacksonville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation. The individuals died at the facility between Friday and Monday.

The overall number of COVID-19 deaths that have occurred in Morgan County is 11. On Monday, the county’s health department announced 44 more people testing positive.

August 10, 4:50 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Monday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 21 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Monday. 5 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1270 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 10, 12:45 p.m.

Monday's IDPH Statewide Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,319 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 1 additional confirmed death.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 195,399 cases, including 7,637 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 32,353 specimens for a total of 3,106,341. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from August 3 - August 9 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,481 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 352 patients (23%) were in the ICU and 138 patients (9%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 9

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Sunday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 61 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Sunday. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1249 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 7

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Friday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 27 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Friday. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1188 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 7, 2:25 p.m.

Sangamon County No Longer at Warning Level for COVID-19 - Cass Remains on List - Tazewell Added

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 13 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Thirteen counties are currently reported at a warning level - Cass, Coles, Grundy, Iroquois, Jackson, Monroe, Perry, Saline, St. Clair, Tazewell, Union, Williamson, Winnebago.

These counties saw cases or outbreaks associated with businesses, long-term care facilities, large social gatherings, and out of state travel. There have been several instances of multiple cases among family members in the same, large household. Students returning to universities and colleges are also driving the recent increase in cases in several communities. Many students are not wearing face coverings or social distancing and are gathering in large groups and at bars.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at

August 7, 2:15 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Positivity Rate Continues to Rise

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 2,084 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 21 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 190,508 cases, including 7,613 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 46,869 specimens for a total of 2,984,618. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 31 - August 6 is 4.1%. As of last night, 1,486 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 333 patients (22%) were in the ICU and 125 patients (8%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 7, 11:45 a.m.

New Illinois Dept. of Public Health COVID-19 Emergency Rules

In an effort to maintain the progress made in Illinois' COVID-19 pandemic response, the Pritzker administration is filing emergency rules for businesses, schools, and child care establishments regarding the use of face coverings and the size of gatherings.

The process is as follows:

- First, businesses will be given a warning in the form of written notice and encouraged to voluntarily comply with public health guidance.

- Second, businesses that do not voluntarily comply will be given an order to have some or all of their patrons leave the premises as needed to comply with public health guidance and reduce risks.

- Third, if the business continues to refuse to comply, the business can receive a class A misdemeanor and be subject to a fine ranging from $75-$2,500.

These rules do not apply to individuals and penalties will not exceed a misdemeanor and a $75-$2,500 fine.

The emergency rules also reinforce the authority of IDPH and local health departments to investigate COVID-19 cases and reaffirm that businesses have a responsibility to cooperate with those investigations.

August 7, 11:45 a.m.

Governor Pritzker Signs Senate Bill 471 to Expand Workplace Protections

To directly protect workers in retail, the law adds a penalty for assaulting or battering a retail worker who is conveying public health guidance, such as requiring patrons to wear face-coverings or promoting social distancing. This provision sends the message that it's vitally important for workers to be both respected and protected while serving on the front lines.

The law also increases paid disability leave for any injury that occurs after March 9, 2020 by 60 days for firefighters, law enforcement, and paramedics whose recovery was hindered by COVID-19.

More specifically, eligible employees include:

- Any part-time or full-time State correctional officer or any other full or part-time employee of the Department of Corrections

- Any full or part-time employee of the Prisoner Review Board

- Any full or part-time employee of the Department of Human Services working within a penal institution or a State mental health or developmental disabilities facility operated by the Department of Human Services

- Any full-time law enforcement officer or full-time firefighter

Senate Bill 471 takes effect immediately.

August 6, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Daily Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 46 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Thursday. 7 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1161 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 6, 12:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH Statewide COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,953 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 21 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 188,424 cases, including 7,594 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 41,686 specimens for a total of 2,937,749. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 30 - August 5 is 4.0%. As of last night, 1,517 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 346 patients (22%) were in the ICU and 132 patients (8%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 5, 4:45 p.m.

COVID-19 Outbreak in Morgan County

The Morgan County Health Department has learned of an outbreak of COVID-19 linked to a retirement party which took place on Saturday, July 25 at AMVETS Post 100, 210 N Court St, Jacksonville, IL. Four adults who attended the event have tested positive for COVID-19. Effective immediately Health Department officials are placing all attendees from this gathering under quarantine. Quarantine is used to separate individuals who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 to determine whether they develop symptoms or test positive for the disease.

A person under quarantine is required to stay in their home and may not leave, except to seek medical treatment, until they are released by the health department. Any person who attended this event are to quarantine in place until: Saturday, August 8. Anyone who attended this retirement party and have questions about quarantine, or who wishes to report a positive COVID-19 test, should contact the Morgan County Health Department during normal business hours at 217-245-5111.
Any person who attended this event and has developed COVID-like symptoms is encouraged to seek testing immediately.

Testing is now available in Morgan County regardless of ability to pay. The Morgan County COVID-19 Testing Hotline is 217-479-1817. Call center staff is available from 9 am – noon on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The Health Department urges any person exhibiting signs or symptoms of COVID-19 to isolate at home and contact their medical doctor or primary care provider. Symptomatic individuals who do not have a medical doctor or primary care provider may call the SIU COVID Hotline at 217-545-5100 to establish care.

August 5, 4:15 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Daily Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 39 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Wednesday. 7 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1115 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 5, 12:00 p.m.

Daily IDPH Statewide COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,759 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 186,471 cases, including 7,573 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 46,668 specimens for a total of 2,896,063. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 29 - August 4 is 3.9%. As of last night, 1,552 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 368 patients (23%) were in the ICU and 129 patients (8%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 5, 11:30 a.m.

New COVID-19 Testing Times at SIU Site in Springfield

SIU Medicine, in coordination with the Sangamon County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) and the Office of the Mayor, recently relaunched a testing site at SCDPH to meet the immediate need for expanded testing in Sangamon County.

Testing is now available only on select days at 2833 S. Grand Avenue East in the parking area adjacent to the public health building. All testing slots are open during the following times, weather permitting. The site is closed on Wednesdays.

Monday: 9–11 a.m. | 4–7 p.m.
Tuesday: 9–11 a.m. | 4–7 p.m.

Thursday: 9–11 a.m. | 4–7 p.m.
Friday: 9–11 a.m.

Before heading out for a test, please wait at least four days from a possible exposure to get the most accurate test result and quarantine at home until a result has been given.

August 4, 4:40 p.m.

Tuesday's Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 15 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Tuesday. 9 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1081 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 4, 12:40 p.m.

Tuesday's IDPH Statewide Medical Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,471 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 19 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 184,712 cases, including 7,545 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 42,598 specimens for a total of 2,849,395. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 28 - August 3 is 3.9%. As of last night, 1,496 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 365 patients (24%) were in the ICU and 125 patients (8%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

August 4, 12:30 p.m.

Springfield Park District Mask Mandate

The Springfield Park District is now requiring the wearing of face masks when entering any of its indoor facilities, including those used for golf courses.

August 3, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Updates

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 21 new cases of new coronavirus disease on Monday. 9 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 1066 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

August 3, 12:00 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,298 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 10 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 183,241 cases, including 7,526 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 28,475 specimens for a total of 2,806,797. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 27 -August 2 is 4.0% As of last night, 1,418 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 347 patients (24%) were in the ICU and 132 patients (9%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 31, 7:30 p.m.

New Springfield Emergency Order for Bars & Restaurants

Pursuant to the authority granted by the City of Springfield Emergency Declaration, state and local law, Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder signed his sixth Emergency Order today. In a proactive attempt to gain compliance and to give clear direction to business owners, the order states that all patrons of a bar or restaurant must have an assigned table/seat. The number of patrons in each establishment should not exceed the number of available tables/seats while maintaining required social distancing.

Patrons must have an assigned table (seated or high top) and must remain at their table unless leaving the establishment or going to the restroom. If a person moves away from their assigned table or seat (whether to visit another table, go to the bar, or restroom), a face covering must be worn over the mouth and nose. Wearing a mask is an important health and safety measure.

This weekend and throughout next week, representatives from the Springfield Police and Fire departments will be inspecting bars and restaurants and distributing the attached guidelines. Next Friday and Saturday, they will be doing COVID-19 compliance checks and issuing $500 citations that could lead up to temporary suspension of the establishment’s liquor license for subsequent offenses.

If businesses have questions regarding best practices and recommendations, or residents have concerns about a local establishment not complying with the order, they may contact the Springfield Fire Department’s Fire Safety Division at 217.789.2170.

July 31, 5:20 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 30 new cases of new coronavirus disease today. 8 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 969 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 31, 1:30 p.m.

Sangamon and Cass Among 11 Illinois Counties at Warning Level for COVID-19

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 11 counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when it experiences an increase in two or more COVID-19 risk indicators from the state's COVID-19 Resurgence Mitigation plan.

Eleven counties are currently at a warning level - Cass, Gallatin, Jackson, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Perry, Randolph, Saline, Sangamon, St. Clair, and White.

These counties saw outbreaks associated with business operations and activities posing higher risk for disease spread, including school graduation ceremonies, a rise in cases among late teens and 20s, parties and social gatherings, people going to bars, long-term care outbreaks, clusters of cases associated with restaurants and churches, and big sports events including soccer, golf, and softball tournaments.

Residents of many communities are not wearing face coverings that have been proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Public health officials are finding that most contacts to cases are testing positive as well.

Several counties are taking swift action and implementing mitigation measures to help slow the spread of the virus. Examples include the mayor of Springfield requiring bar employees to wear masks or be subject to fines, Perry County hospitals and nursing homes temporarily suspending visitors, and the state's attorney in Jackson County allowing the local food ordinance to be used to enforce COVID-19 guidance at restaurants and bars.

IDPH uses numerous indicators when determining if a county is experiencing stable COVID-19 activity, or if there are warning signs of increased COVID-19 risk in the county:

New cases per 100,000 people. If there are more than 50 new cases per 100,000 people in the county, this triggers a warning.

Number of deaths. This metric indicates a warning when the weekly number of deaths increases more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.

Weekly test positivity. This metric indicates a warning when the 7-day test positivity rate rises above 8%.

ICU availability. If there are fewer than 20% of intensive care units available in the region, this triggers a warning.

Weekly emergency department visits. This metric indicates a warning when the weekly percent of COVID-19-like-illness emergency department visits increase by more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.

Weekly hospital admissions. A warning is triggered when the weekly number of hospital admissions for COVID-19-like-illness increases by more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.

Tests perform. This metric is used to provide context and indicate if more testing is needed in the county.

Clusters. This metric looks at the percent of COVID-19 cases associated with clusters or outbreaks and is used to understand large increase in cases.

These metrics are intended to be used for local level awareness to help local leaders, businesses, local health departments, and the public make informed decisions about personal and family gatherings, as well as what activities they choose to do. The metrics are updated weekly, with data from the Sunday-Saturday of the prior week.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics

July 31, 1:20 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 IDPH Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,941 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 21 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 178,837 cases, including 7,495 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 49,782 specimens for a total of 2,699,568. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 24 -July 30 is 3.9%. As of last night, 1,369 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 346 patients (25%) were in the ICU and 148 patients (10%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 30, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report for Thursday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 24 new cases of new coronavirus disease today. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 940 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 30, 3:30 p.m.

Springfield SIU Medicine Testing Center Hours

The COVID-19 testing site in Springfield run by SIU Medicine located in the parking lot of the Sangamon County Department of Public Health on South Grand Avenue will not be offering COVID-19 testing tonight or tomorrow night.

Testing will be available tomorrow (Friday) morning, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

A county spokesman says SIU Medicine, which relaunched the site early this week, is running low on testing supplies. More than 200 people were tested on Thursday morning.

July 30, 1:20 p.m.

COVID-19 Cases in Illinois Continue to Rise

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,772 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 18 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 176,896 cases, including 7,478 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 41,134 specimens for a total of 2,649,786. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 23 -July 29 is 3.8%. As of last night, 1,452 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 353 patients (24%) were in the ICU and 149 patients (10%) with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 29, 5:25 p.m.

Springfield Cooling Center Now Open Seven Days A Week

The City of Springfield has announced a partnership with Fifth Street Renaissance to operate its location at 1015 E. Madison Street to serve as a Cooling Center for residents who need relief from the high temperatures. This is the same facility that served as the overnight warming center in the winter months.

The facility will be open every day including weekends from 1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Fifth Street Renaissance will provide staffing. The location was open the last two weekends as well due to the high temperatures.

Anyone entering the Cooling Center will have their temperature checked. Face coverings will be required and social distancing will be monitored.

July 29, 4:45 p.m.

Rise in COVID-19 Cases in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 49 new cases of new coronavirus disease today. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 916 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 29, 4:00 p.m.

Free Meter Parking in Downtown Springfield Extended Through Labor Day

Free downtown meter parking has now been extended through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. However, citations will still be issued for vehicles not adhering to the time limits posted on the parking signs. This means you do not need to put change in a meter when you park; however, you will be required to move your vehicle within the time posted at that parking location. It is important to keep traffic moving to allow as many people as possible the chance to visit downtown businesses.

As a reminder, parking illegally or in an unlawful area including bus or loading zones, no parking, and accessible spaces is enforceable 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

The City also has bagged meters with blue coverings that include the message “Curbside Pickup Parking Only” in an effort to support downtown food and retail establishments. These designated spots will remain in place until further notice.

Questions about parking may be directed to the City of Springfield’s Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255.

July 29, 12:45 p.m.

Governor Pritzker Announces New Guidelines for Recreational Sports

Today, Governor Pritzker announced guidance for youth and adult recreational sports, including, but not limited to, school-based sports (IHSA & IESA), travel clubs, private leagues and clubs, recreational leagues and centers, and park district sports programs. The guidance was developed in coordination with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

The newly released guidance categorizes sports into three risk levels: low, medium, or high, based on the amount of contact between athletes and their proximity during play. The guidance sets four levels of play allowed based on current public health conditions.

In level 1, only no-contact practices are allowed and they must be outside. In level 2, indoor and outdoor practices and intra-team scrimmages are allowed but there can be no competitive play. In level 3 intra-conference, intra-region or intra-league play is allowed and there may be state- or league-championship games allowed for low-risk sports only. In level 4, tournaments, out-of-conference play, and out-of-state play are allowed. State championship games would also be allowed in level 4.

Beginning Saturday August 15th, low risk sports can be played at levels 1, 2, and 3. Medium risk sports can be played at levels 1 and 2, and high-risk sports can be played at level 1. Please see the guidance for youth and adult recreational sports document for more detailed information.

July 29, 12:45 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Update for Wednesday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,393 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 18 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 175,124 cases, including 7,462 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 38,187 specimens for a total of 2,608,652.

The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 22 -July 28 is 3.8%.

As of last night, 1,491 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 355 patients were in the ICU and 152 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 28, 4:40 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update for Tuesday

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 32 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 868 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 28, 3:55 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,076 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 173,731 cases, including 7,446 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 28,331 specimens for a total of 2,570,465. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 21 -July 27 is 3.8%. As of last night, 1,383 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 329 patients were in the ICU and 128 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 28, 3:45 p.m.

Auburn Remote Learning in the Fall

The Auburn School District will be starting the school year with remote learning for the first nine weeks, and will reassess the state of learning for the last nine weeks of the fall semester. Students will begin school on August 26. Those with special education needs will have a different structure for learning. The district is also making acccommodations for those who need internet access or devices. Food services will also deliver meals for students who qualify.

July 28, 12:45 p.m.

School District 186 Registration Deadline

Friday is the last day of registration for School District 186. Parents can go online to the district’s website and register their child for both online and in-person learning or fully remote learning.

Registration is required for all students, and will help determine the schedule for the 20-21 school year, although the schedule could change at any time.

District 186 families who do not have access to register online can register in-person at Lanphier, Southeast, Springfield High Schools, and Franklin Middle School. The schools will be open on Tuesday and Wednesday morning; and Thursday and Friday afternoon.

July 27, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 16 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 6 people are currently hospitalized in the county. There have been 836 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 27, 2:45 p.m.

Morgan County Health Department Offering COVID-19 Testing at New Location

The Morgan County Health Department will once again offer COVID-19 testing, but at a new location - parking lot A on the campus of Passavant Area Hospital.

Individuals must schedule their appointment by calling the testing hotline, 217-479-1817, on Tuesday or Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to noon. Appointments will be scheduled for the following day. Testing will begin on Wednesday, July 29, and will be available on Wednesdays and Thursdays only.

Parking lot A is located on the west side of the Passavant campus, just north of the Emergency Department. Individuals should use the Westgate entrance and proceed north to the parking lot A. Passavant is located at 1600 W. Walnut Ave.

Individuals with appointments should arrive as close to their scheduled time as possible. Medical assessment or treatment will not be available. For additional information on COVID-19, visit MorganHD.com.

July 27, 2:30 p.m.

Monday's IDPH Statewide Coronavrus Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,231 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 18 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 172,655 cases, including 7,416 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 30,567 specimens for a total of 2,542,134. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 20 -July 26 is 3.8%. As of last night, 1,417 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 350 patients were in the ICU and 124 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 24, 5:15 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Restrictions

Due to concerns over increasing COVID-19 cases in Sangamon County, officials are taking additionalsteps to slow the spread.

The county is targeting brs and restaurants by placing new limits on how many people can be inside at one time. A total of 50 people - or - 50% of occupancy will be enforced.

Face masks will be required to be worn by staff, and sinks for hand washing , along with hand sanitizer, musts be made available. Also, at least six feet of social distancing must be maintained between groups at all times.

Violators can face fines, and businesses could have their license taken away.

In fourteen of the past sixteen days, Sangamon County has reported new positive cases in the double digits.

Further details can be found at the Sangamon County Dept. of Public Health's website: https://scdph.org/

July 24, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 22 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 6 people are now hospitalized in the county. There have been 783 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 24, 1:45 p.m.

Four Illinois Counties at Warning Level for Coronavirus Disease

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported four counties in Illinois are considered to be at a warning level for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A county enters a warning level when two or more COVID-19 risk indicators that measure the amount of COVID-19 increase.

Four counties are currently reported at a warning level: Adams, LaSalle, Peoria, and Randolph.

These counties saw outbreaks associated with business and risky behavior, including:

Adams County: larger social events, health care exposure, travel to hotspots including those in neighboring Missouri and Iowa, places of worship, and youth sports.

LaSalle County: large family and social gatherings, increase in cases among people younger than 29 years, younger people visiting bars and attending larger social events, and inconsistencies with masking requirements.

Peoria County: increases in cases among people younger than 29 years, large gatherings including 4th of July parties, and people traveling to Florida, Iowa, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Randolph County: congregate settings, numerous bars not complying with distancing and masking, a large party with more than 200 people, and among households.

IDPH uses numerous indicators when determining if a county is experiencing stable COVID-19 activity, or if there are warning signs of increased COVID-19 risk in the county.

• New cases per 100,000 people. If there are 50 or more new cases per 100,000 people in the county, this triggers a warning.
• Number of deaths. This metric indicates a warning when the number of deaths increases more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.
• Weekly test positivity. This metric indicates a warning when the 7-day test positivity rate rises above 8%.
• ICU availability. If there are fewer than 20% of intensive care units available in the region, this triggers a warning.
• Weekly emergency department visits. This metric indicates a warning when the weekly percent of COVID-19-like-illness emergency department visits increase by more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.
• Weekly hospital admissions. A warning is triggered when the weekly number of hospital admissions for COVID-19-like-illness increases by more than 20% for two consecutive weeks.
• Tests perform. This metric is used to provide context and indicate if more testing is needed in the county.
• Clusters. This metric looks at the percent of COVID-19 cases associated with clusters or outbreaks and is used to understand large increase in cases.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the IDPH website at https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.

July 24, 1:30 p.m.

State Hits More Than 44,000 Tests in One Day - More Than 1,500 New Cases Reported

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,532 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 19 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 168,457 cases, including 7,385 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 44,330 specimens for a total of 2,432,523. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 17 -July 23 is 3.4%. As of last night, 1,471 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 325 patients were in the ICU and 115 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 23, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 21 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 6 people are now hospitalized in the county. There have been 761 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 23, 2:30 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Report

On Thursday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 1,624 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 166,925 cases, including 7,367 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 39,706 specimens for a total of 2,388,193. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 16 -July 22 is 3.4%. As of last night, 1,473 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 309 patients were in the ICU and 135 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 22, 5:10 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 25 new cases of new coronavirus disease. 3 people are now hospitalized in the county. There have been 740 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 22, 3:00 p.m.

Governor Pritzker Extends Eviction Moratorium

Governor J.B. Pritzker has extended a statewide moratorium on evictions, which had been in place through this month. Pritzker now says it will stay in effect through August 22nd. That will give the state time to start a new program to provide as much as 300 million dollars in assistance.

That action includes a new program designed to get as much as 300-million dollars to renters and home owners who need help. Starting August 10th, applications will open for renters and then the week of August 28th for homeowners. Eligibility will be based on income and having missed housing payments.

July 22, 2:00 p.m.

Public Health Officials Announce Nearly 1,600 New COVID-19 Cases

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,598 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois on Wednesday, including 23 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 165,301 cases, including 7,347 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 39,633 specimens for a total of 2,348,487. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 15 -July 21 is 3.2%. As of last night, 1,456 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 337 patients were in the ICU and 132 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 21, 5:15 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 28 new cases of coronavirus disease. 4 people are now hospitalized in the county. There have been 715 total cases since the pandemic began, including 34 deaths.

July 21, 2:50 p.m.

Tuesday's Statewide Medical COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 955 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 23 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 163,703 cases, including 7,324 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 29,745 specimens for a total of 2,308,854. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 14 - July 20 is 3.1%. As of last night, 1,466 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 320 patients were in the ICU and 142 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice's (IDJJ) IYC St. Charles facility is reporting 16 new cases of COVID-19 in staff and 3 new cases among the youth, prompting increased mitigation and infection control measures. All youth and staff have been tested for COVID-19 and the facility is implementing programming changes to reduce further spread.

This week Chester Mental Health Center in Randolph County reported 27 staff and 5 residents with newly confirmed cases of COVID-19. Shapiro Developmental in Kankakee County reported 1 resident and 6 staff of newly confirmed cases of COVID-19. Full infection control measures are in operation at these facilities for both residents and staff.

July 20, 4:45 p.m.

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 22 new cases of coronavirus disease on Monday. Six people are now hospitalized in the county. Of the 687 total cases since the pandemic began, 400 have recovered with 34 deaths.

The Morgan County Health Department announced six new COVID-19 cases from over the weekend. All of the above cases are isolated and recovering at home. The long term care facility in Morgan County is no longer in outbreak status.

In Macon County, 16 newly-confirmed cases have been reported since Friday. The overall number is 283 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Macon County. Thus far, 12,052 tests have been performed in the county.

Montgomery County: The Illinois Department of Public Health has scheduled a COVID-19 testing site at the former Wright Automotive located at 11159 Illinois Route 185 in Hillsboro. It is right next to the Montgomery County Health Dept. This site will run 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 21 through Sunday, July 26. This is open to anyone wishing to be tested. Appointments are not necessary. You will be asked for your insurance information, however, insurance is not required. There is no fee for this testing. Please follow signs and instructions and show patience, as the wait time may vary depending on volume.

July 20, 3:10 p.m.

Where To Get COVID-19 Tests In Springfield

There are now two drive-through, COVID-19 testing sites in Springfield – Memorial Medical Center Respiratory Clinic and Walgreens.

At this time, both require an appointment, according to information provided by the Sangamon County Department of Public Health.

Anyone over 18, regardless of symptoms, can be screened for COVID-19 at the Walgreens site, 1155 N. 9th Street. To schedule an appointment, visit their website. Their hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Anyone with symptoms or who has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 can be screened at the Memorial Medical Center clinic at 2950 S. Sixth Street. For appointments, call 217-588-4019. The clinic is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Illinois Department of Public Health-backed site that was in the county health department’s parking lot closed Sunday. It is a mobile testing unit, and IDPH moved it to Hillsboro.

July 20, 3:00 p.m.

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 1,173 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 6 additional confirmed deaths.

- Cass County – 1 female 90s
- Cook County – 1 female 70s, 1 male 90s
- DuPage County – 1 male 70s
- Peoria County – 1 female 100+
- Will County – 1 female 50s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 162,748 cases, including 7,301 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 34,598 specimens for a total of 2,279,109. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 13 - July 19 is 3.0%. As of last night, 1,410 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 308 patients were in the ICU and 133 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 17, 3:20 p.m.

Friday's Statewide COVID-19 Medical Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,384 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 22 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 159,334 cases, including 7,272 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 43,692 specimens for a total of 2,166,299. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 10-July 16 is 3.0%. As of last night, 1,431 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 309 patients were in the ICU and 128 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.
July 16, 3:20 p.m.

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 1,257 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths.

- Cook County – 1 male 30s, 1 male 50s, 1 female 60s, 2 females 70s, 1 female 80s, 1 female 90s
- Cumberland County – 1 female 80s
- Effingham County – 1 female 80s
- Kane County – 1 female 60s, 1 male 80s
- Lake County – 1 female 80s, 1 female 90s, 1 male 90s
- McHenry County – 1 female 70s
- Ogle County – 1 male 60s
- St. Clair County – 1 female 90s, 1 male 90s
- Union County – 1 female 80s, 1 female 90s
- Whiteside County – 1 male 80s
- Will County – 1 female 70s, 1 male 80s
- Winnebago County – 1 male 80s, 1 female 90s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 157,950 cases, including 7,251 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 43,006 specimens for a total of 2,122,607. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 9–July 15 is 3.1%. As of last night, 1,434 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 311 patients were in the ICU and 127 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 22 new positive cases Thursday. Since the pandemic began, 614 people have been diagnosesd with COVID-19. There have been 34 deaths in the county. Currently, three Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

Morgan County reports two additional individuals confirmed to have COVID-19. Both are isolating at home.

There are three new cases to announced in Macon County for an overall total of 262.

July 15, 4:15 p.m.

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health has announced 27 new positive cases. One positive case that was first reported on July 12th will no longer be included in the totals, as the case has been transferred to Cook County.

The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 593, including 34 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

Macon County's Health Department reported four newly confirmed cases of COVID-19. The overall number is 259 in the county.

Morgan County Health Department has received confirmation of one additional case of COVID-19. The 137th case is a female in her 50’s who is isolating at home.

The Greene County Health Department said there are four active cases. Since the start of the pandemic, the total is 12. The department said 1,008 tests have been negative.

July 15, 2:00 p.m.

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 1,187 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 8 additional confirmed deaths.

- Cook County – 1 male 40s, 1 male 60s, 1 male 70s, 1 female 90s
- DuPage County – 1 male 80s
- Kane County – 1 female 80s
- Will County – 1 male 50s, 1 female 70s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 156,693 cases, including 7,226 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 38,161 specimens for a total of 2,079,601.

The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 8–July 14 is 3.1%. As of last night, 1,454 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 324 patients were in the ICU and 130 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 14, 4:45 p.m.

Statewide Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 707 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 155,506 cases, including 7,218 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 28,446 specimens for a total of 2,041,440. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 7 –July 13 is 3.0%. As of last night, 1,416 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 333 patients were in the ICU and 126 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 14, 1:40 p.m.

Four employees of a medical group in Springfield have confirmed COVID-19 cases. Springfield Clinic announced Tuesday that the employees tested positive last week, and are now isolating.

A statement from the medical group says the employees worked in a “non-patient” area and an internal investigation showed no patients were exposed. The statement goes on to say the original exposure to the virus was outside of Springfield Clinic.

The medical group continues to screen patients for symptoms at the entrance to its clinics and requires patients and staff to wear masks.

Springfield Clinic employs more than 500 physicians and advanced practitioners in locations throughout central Illinois.

Overall, Sangamon County's Public Health Department announced 12 new positive cases Tuesday. The total number of county residents with confirmed cases is 567, including 34 deaths. Currently, three positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

The University of Illinois Springfield has learned of an individual on campus who tested positive for COVID-19. Public health officials have been reaching out to those who may have been exposed. UIS also has been made aware of two off-campus individuals who have tested positive within the past month. A statement from UIS said these individuals did not visit the campus while contagious.

Macon County announced one new COVID-19 case Tuesday, bringing the total to 255 since the pandemic began.

July 13, 3:10 p.m.

Area COVID-19 Case Report

Sangamon County’s Department of Public Health has announced 24 more individuals with COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 555, including 34 deaths. Currently, three residents are hospitalized.

Also, one additional City of Springfield employee tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. The employee works in the Public Works garage along with the two other employees who tested positive last week. Two of the three individuals traveled out of state prior to testing positive.

The Logan County Department of Public Health has confirmed four more people with COVID-19. They include an individual in their 50s who is symptomatic and isolating at home, an individual in their 20s who is symptomatic and isolating at home, an individual in their 60s who is asymptomatic and isolating at home and a person in their 60s who is asymptomatic and is isolating outside of Logan County. The total number of confirmed cases in Logan County is now 23, including 16 individuals who have recovered.

Morgan County is reporting its 136th case, a woman in her 20s who is isolating at home.

Nine new cases are being reported in Macon County, bringing the overall total to 254 since the pandemic began. 10, 750 tests have been completed in the county.

The Montgomery County Board meeting set for Tuesday evening has been canceled and will be rescheduled at a later date. A county employee who works with the board was unknowngly exposed to COVID-19 while off duty, according to an Emergency Management Agency social media post. The employee is waiting test results.

Outbreaks in Montgomery County have been reported in recent days at the hospital and Tremont Ridge Assisted Living in Hillsboro and at the Cornerstone Church and Lillypad Daycare in Litchfield. The second death from COVID-19 in the county, a man in his 90s, was announced Monday.

In Cass County, a 95-year-old woman died Monday in Virginia after being diagnosed with the coronavirus disease. She had been a resident in a long term care facility is the 10th person to die from COVID-19 in the county. 141 people have been confirmed with the disease and 122 have recovered, according to the Cass County Health Department.

July 13, 3:00 p.m.

Statewide Coronavirus Update For Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 883 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 6 additional confirmed deaths in the following counties.

- Cook County: 1 female 50s, 1 female 60s, 1 male 70s, 1 female 90s
- DuPage County: 1 male 80s
- Montgomery County: 1 male 90s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 154,799 cases, including 7,193 deaths, in all 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 30,012 specimens for a total of 2,012,994. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 6 –July 12 is 3.0%. As of last night, 1,362 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 334 patients were in the ICU and 136 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 10, 5:40 p.m.

Sangamon County Coronavirus Update for Friday

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 17 new positive cases. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 518, including 34 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 10, 5:30 p.m.

Two City Of Springfield Employees Test Positive For Covid-19

Two city of Springfield employees tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, July 9. The employees work in the Public Works Garage and have not been in their respective areas this week.

Since receiving the test results, any employee who was in direct contact with the workers have been sent to have a COVID-19 test and asked to follow the guidance provided by the testing facility including quarantine. The department work areas are undergoing a deep clean and returning to their previously implemented Phase 2 work plan. This includes designated shifts and workers reporting directly to their vehicles and proceeding to their assigned job sites without coming into the facility.

Public Works employees who were not in direct contact with their co-workers have been asked to self-monitor their symptoms and follow health guidelines.

The City of Springfield says it has instituted various precautions since the pandemic to keep employees safe including providing appropriate protective equipment and supplies, requiring face coverings, requiring social distancing, and additional cleanings to its facilities.

July 10, 3:00 p.m.

Friday's IDPH COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,317 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 25 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 151,767 cases, including 7,144 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 32,987 specimens for a total of 1,911,743. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 3 -July 9 is 2.9%. As of last night, 1,436 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 306 patients were in the ICU and 155 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 9, 5:10 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 18 new positive cases today. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 501, including 34 deaths. Currently, five confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 9, 3:10 p.m.

Over a Thousand New Confirmed Cases of COVID-19

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,018 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 20 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 150,450 cases, including 7,119 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 36,180 specimens for a total of 1,878,756. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 2 -July 8 is 2.6%. As of last night, 1,507 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 317 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 8, 6:20 p.m.

Extension for Driver's Licences and Vehicle Plate Sticker Renewal

Expiration dates for driver's licenses, identification cards, and license plate stickers have been extended one more month - to November 1st. Illinois Secretary of State Jess White says that expired documents will remain valid so that people don't feel they have to rush to Driver Services offices., especially during the current heat wave. The extension also covers those who have July, August, and September expiration dates. White says that if someone must visit an office, they should be prepared to wait outside due to social distancing guidelines, which limits the number of people inside an office facility at one time.

July 8, 6:10 p.m.

Governor Pritzker Announces More Testing Teams

Gov. J.B. Pritzker says the state is rolling out 12 mobile testing teams, which will be prepared to visit meat factories, nursing homes, and homeless shelters. The public health department reported 980 new virus cases and 36 deaths on Wednesday, July 8th. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike there has been an increase in infections among young people who have attended social gatherings.

July 8, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 13 new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 483, including 34 deaths. Currently, four confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 8, 4:30 p.m.

IDPH Announces 980 New Confirmed Cases of COVID-19

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 980 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 36 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 149,432 cases, including 7,099 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 32,742 specimens for a total of 1,842,576. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from July 1 -July 7 is 2.6%. As of last night, 1,518 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 331 patients were in the ICU and 151 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 7, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County Coronavirus Update

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 13 new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 470, including 34 deaths. Currently, 5 confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 7, 2:45 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 587 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 37 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 148,452 cases, including 7,063 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 26,994 specimens for a total of 1,809,834. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 20 -July 6 is 2.5%. As of last night, 1,385 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 320 patients were in the ICU and 153 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

July 6, 6:10 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Report

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced 13 new positive cases of COVID-19. One positive case that was first reported on June 26th will no longer be included in the totals, as the case has been transferred to Christian County. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 457, including 34 deaths. Currently, 4 confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 6, 6:00 p.m.

IDPH COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 614 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 6 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 147,865 cases, including 7,026 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 21,134 specimens for a total of 1,782,840. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 29 -July 5 is 2.6%.

July 3, 5:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Medical Report

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced eight new positive cases. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 445, including 34 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 3, 10:00 a.m.

Scott County Reports First Case

The last Illinois county without a person confirmed to have COVID-19 this year can no longer make that claim. The Scott County Health Department said Thursday a 66 year old woman tested positive. She is recovering at home. The department is working to notify those who had contact with her.

July 2, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced three new positive cases of COVID-19 today. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 437, including 34 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 2, 2:45 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 869 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 36 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 144,882 cases, including 6,987 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 30,262 specimens for a total of 1,666,317. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 25 -July 1, is 2.6%.

July 1, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County New Coronavirus Update

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced three new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 434, including 34 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

July 1, 2:45 p.m.

IDPH Daily COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 828 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 30 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 144,013 cases, including 6,951 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 33,090 specimens for a total of 1,636,055. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 24 -June 30 is 2.6%.

June 30, 6:20 p.m.

One New COVID-19-Related Death in Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced one new death due to COVID-19. The patient was a female in her 70’s who tested positive for COVID-19 on June 25th. She was an inpatient at Memorial Medical Center. The Department also announced seven new positive cases. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 431, including 34 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 30, 5:10 p.m.

Morgan County COVID-19 Report

The Morgan County Health Department has received confirmation of one additional positive case of COVID-19. The 132nd case is a female in her in her 20’s who is isolated at home. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Morgan County is 132, the number of COVID-19 cases released from restrictions is 113, and the number of COVID-19-related deaths is 3.

June 30, 3:00 p.m.

Statewide Medical Update for Tuesday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 724 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 23 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 143,185 cases, including 6,923 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 31,069 specimens for a total of 1,602,965. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 23 -June 29 is 2.6%.

June 29, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced 19 new positive cases of COVID-19. This includes positive results from Saturday, June 27th through Monday, June 29th. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 424, including 33 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 29, 3:00 p.m.

IDPH COVID-19 Medical Report for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 738 new confirmed cases of new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 14 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 142,461 cases, including 14 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 26,918 specimens for a total of 1,571,896. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 22 -June 28 is 2.7%.

June 29, 2:50 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Weekend Medical Report

Today, the Illinois Dept. of Public Health reported the following for the past weekend:

For Saturday, June 27th: 786 new cases for a total of 141,077 cases. 26 additional deaths for a total of 6,873 deaths. 30,237 new test results for a total of 1,521,189 tests.

For Sunday, June 28th: 646 new cases for a total of 141,723 cases. 15 additional deaths for a total of 6,888 deaths. 23,789 new test results for a total of 1,544,978 tests.

June 26, 9:15 p.m.

IDPH Provides Phase 4 Guidance for Swimming Facilities

Under Phase 4 of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Restore Illinois plan, swimming facilities licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) can open at a maximum of 50% of capacity. This includes swimming pools, water parks, splashpads, and beaches.

“There is currently no evidence that COVID-19 can spread to people through the water in pools and water playgrounds,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “However, the virus can still spread between people while in the pool, playing at a water park, or in a spa. Make sure to keep your distance from other people, especially if waiting in line or sitting around the pool.”

Swimming facilities are required to have plans that address maintaining physical distance for areas where people line up to use a water slide, lazy river, or other water features. This can include putting up signs, having attendants monitor people, or using markings. The plan must also address sanitization of all equipment, such as rafts, tubes, and lounge chairs. These must be sanitized between each use.

Operators should limit group sizes to no more than 50 people. Operators, employees, and customers should wear face coverings when not swimming or using other water features. Exceptions can be made for children younger than two years or people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering.

Pools and water parks should require temperature checks for employees and customers when entering the facility, as well as in-person screenings to verify individuals do not have symptoms of COVID-19.

June 26, 9:00 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced three new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 405, including 33 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 26, 3:15 p.m.

Route 66 Mother Road Festival Cancelled

As a result of growing concerns over COVID-19, Illinois Route 66 Events, Inc., the City of Springfield, and Bonnier Events have made the decision to cancel the 2020 International Mother Road Route 66 Festival, which had been scheduled for September 25-27 in Springfield.

Participants who have pre-registered vehicles will automatically receive a refund.

The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival hosts and organizers say that the annual festival will resume in 2021.

June 26, 3:00 p.m.

Free Metered Parking in Downtown Springfield Through July

Free downtown meter parking has now been extended through July 31. This means you do not need to put change in a meter when you park; however, you will be required to move your vehicle within the time posted at that parking location. Citations will still be issued for vehicles not adhering to the posted times on the signs and exceeding these park times.

As a reminder, parking illegally or in an unlawful area including bus or loading zones, no parking, and accessible spaces is enforceable 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

The City also has bagged meters with blue coverings that include the message “Curbside Pickup Parking Only” in an effort to support downtown food and retail establishments. These designated spots will remain in place until further notice.

June 26, 2:45 p.m.

Daily Statewide COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 857 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 39 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 140,291 cases, including 6,847 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 30,425 specimens for a total of 1,490,952. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 19-June 25 is 3%.

June 25, 8:00 p.m.

Central Illinois Update

The Cass County Health Department announced three more people have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Also, the county's first death from the disease has been reported. The 82 year old man was part of an outbreak at a long term care facility in the county.

Macon County has four more individuals confirmed with COVID-19. The county's overall total is 227 since the pandemic began.

One new case was announced in Christian County Thursday. Morgan County also had one additional person testing positive. The female in her 30's is isolating at home. There have been 127 cases in the county overall.

June 25, 6:20 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced two new positive cases of COVID-19 today. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 402, including 33 deaths. Currently, one confirmed positive Sangamon County resident is hospitalized.

June 25, 6:00 p.m.

Springfield's Lincoln Library Opens Monday

Lincoln Library, the Public Library of Springfield, will open to the public for limited services and capacity beginning Monday, June 29, 2020. The Library is offering Quick Pick services that will allow patrons to browse for popular materials, pick-up hold items, and the ability to copy, print, and fax documents. Reference and Sangamon Valley Collection services will be available by appointment by calling the Library’s main number. Curbside pick-up and other services will continue by phone or email to all Library patrons.

Those coming to the Library can access the building through the north entrance by the Municipal Center, or by the elevator in the underground parking garage. The Capitol Avenue entrance will be closed until further notice. All patrons are asked to check in with a greeter in the lobby when arriving.

Computer access will be available by appointment beginning the week of July 6. Those who have their own devices but need to print can use the Library’s mobile printing service. More information is available online, http://lincolnlibrary.info/howDoI/MobilePrinting.html.

Those coming to Lincoln Library should be aware of changes due to COVID-19. All patrons over the age of 2 are required to wear a face covering and must be worn through the duration of the visit. Seating will not be available. Patrons are encouraged to limit their time in the building due to occupancy limits. All materials must be returned to the 7th Street or lobby book drops and will be isolated for 72 hours before being checked in. Staff are unable to take returned materials at service desks or at curbside. The Library is not able to accept donated materials at this time.

The Library’s adjusted hours are June 29-July 2, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Starting July 6, the Library will be open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Hours of service will be evaluated monthly.

June 25, 3:30 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Medical Update

Today, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 894 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 41 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 139,434 cases, including 6,810 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 31,686 specimens for a total of 1,460,527. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 18-June 24 is 3%.

June 24, 5:30 p.m.
Sangamon County New Coronavirus Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced five new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 400, including 33 deaths. Currently, one confirmed positive Sangamon County resident is hospitalized.

June 24, 2:45 p.m.

Illinois Dept. of Public Heallth Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 715 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 64 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 138,540 cases, including 6,770 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 29,331 specimens for a total of 1,428,841. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 17-June 23 is 3%.

June 23, 10:00 p.m.

More Cases In Cass County

The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed 19 more people with COVID-19 in Cass County. The latest number includes those fom an outbreak at a Cass County long term care facility. All negative residents and staff will continue to be tested at least weekly until no new cases can be associated with the outbreak. This outbreak consists of positive results from 24 residents and 18 staff, including cases from Cass, Morgan, and Mason counties. Cass County Health Department is working with facility leaders and the Illinois Department of Public Health to review facility practices and minimize future spread of illness among the staff and residents.

June 23, 5:20 p.m.

Latest Sangamon County Numbers

The Sangamon County Public Health Department reports four new cases. The total number of Sangamon County residents confirmed with COVIDF-19 is 395, although many of those have recovered. There have been 33 deaths linked to the disease. Currently, one Sangamon County resident is hospitalized.

June 23, 3:00 p.m.

State COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 601 new cases of coronavirus disease in Illinois, including 38 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 137,825 cases, including 6,707 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 20,507 specimens for a total of 1,399,510. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 16–June 22 is two percent.

June 22, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Medical Report

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced two new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 391, including 33 deaths. Currently, one confirmed positive Sangamon County resident is hospitalized.

June 22, 3:00 p.m.

Monday's IDPH Medical Update

Today, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 462 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 26 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 137,224 cases, including 6,671 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 18,219 specimens for a total of 1,379,003. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 15-June 21 is 2%.

June 22, 12:00 p.m.

Sunday's IDPH COVID-19 Update

On Sunday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 658 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 23 additional confirmed deaths. As of Sunday afternoon, IDPH reportied a total of 136,762 cases, including 6,647 deaths. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 14-June 20 was reported at 2%.

June 20, 3:30 p.m.

IDPH Daily COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 634 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 45 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 136,104 cases, including 6,625 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 25,965 specimens for a total of 1,336,968. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 13-June 19 is 3%.

June 19, 6:20 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Report

Today, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced two new positive cases of new coronavirus disease. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 389, including 33 deaths. Currently, no confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 19, 3:00 p.m.

Daily IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 692 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 44 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 135,470 cases, including 6,580 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 27,171 specimens for a total of 1,311,003. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 12-June 18 is 3%.

June 18, 6:00 p.m.

Jacksonville Long Term Care Facility Update

One death and eight additional cases are reported among residents at Aperion Care. Three are hospitalized, according to the Morgan County Office of Emergency Management.

An 87 year old man died at the facility Thursday. He tested positive for COVID-19 on June 9.

The outbreak at Aperion Care was first announced last weekend, when nearly 50 residents and staff were confirmed to have the disease.

June 18, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Health Update

Today the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced one new positive case of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 387, including 33 deaths. Currently, no confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 18, 3:30 p.m.

U-of-I Campuses To Resume Classes This Fall

Today, the University of Illinois announced it would resume educational activities this fall at the system’s three campuses, with a hybrid mixture of in-person and online classes, assuming that Illinois stays on track to meet the Phase 4 requirements established by the Restore Illinois plan that allow reopening of classrooms.

Each university will be providing details of their unique, campus-based plans within the next few weeks, including starting dates and calendars for their fall semesters. University of Illinois System President TIm Killeen provided a summary of elements that will be common to all, including a mixture of in-person and remote instruction to provide the physical distancing that inhibits spread of the virus, with accommodations for students and faculty in vulnerable and at-risk groups, and for students who cannot come to campus due to travel restrictions or other considerations.

Classrooms will be cleaned and disinfected daily and reusable, washable masks will be provided to all students and employees and required in all classrooms and public spaces, with hand sanitizer widely available in all buildings.

Residence hall occupancy will be limited to two students per room, outside visitors will not be allowed in residence halls, and quarantine areas will be created to accommodate students who test positive for COVID-19 or display symptoms. Use of auxiliary facilities such as recreational centers will be limited to preserve safety.

June 18, 3:15 p.m.

Illinois Dept. of Public Health Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 593 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 55 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 134,778 cases, including 6,537 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 25,504 specimens for a total of 1,283,832. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 11-June 17 is 3%.

June 17, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health today announced two new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 386, including 33 deaths. Currently, no confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 17, 3:00 p.m.

IDPH Daily Coronavirus Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 546 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 87 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 134,185 cases, including 6,485 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 29,987 specimens for a total of 1,258,328. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 10-June 16 is 3%.

June 17, 11:00 a.m.

Menard County Fair Canceled

The fair's board of directors met this week and unanimously decided to cancel the 2020 event. It had been scheduled for July 14-19. A Facebook post indicated other options were considered, but the health and safety of fairgoers was the guiding reason for calling off the event.

June 16, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced on Tuesday one new positive case of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 385, including 33 deaths. Currently, no confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 16, 2:45 p.m.

Daily IDPH COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 623 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 72 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 133,639 cases, including 6,398 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 18,729 specimens for a total of 1,228,341. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 9-June 15 is 3%.

At this time, 26 men incarcerated at East Moline Correctional Center are confirmed positive for COVID-19. They are appropriately isolated or quarantined and are being closely monitored by medical personnel. Three staff at the facility also tested positive for the virus and one has recovered. All the confirmed cases have been traced to the same dorm-style living unit. The Illinois Department of Correction's medical task force is utilizing point prevalence surveillance to help control any further spread of infection.

June 15, 6:00 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced six new positive cases of COVID-19 on Monday. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 383, including 33 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 15, 5:00 p.m.

Expanded CARES Act Assistance Eligibility

More people are now eligible for emergency assistance to pay for utilities, food, and rent. As part of the Federal CARES Act, Illinois has an additional 90-million dollars to cover such expenses. Eligibility has now been expanded to cover a family of four making 43-hundred dollars a month. Applications and information is available online at http://www.helpillinoisfamilies.com

June 15, 2:45 p.m.

Monday's Daily IDPH COVID-19 Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 473 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 19 additional confirmed deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 133,016 cases, including 6,326 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 18,627 specimens for a total of 1,209,612. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 8-June 14 is 3%.

June 14, 5:00 p.m.

Sunday's IDPH COVID-19 Report

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 672 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 19 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 132,543 cases, including 6,308 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 22,040 specimens for a total of 1,190,985. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 7-June 13 is 3%.

June 13, 5:00 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Medical Report for Saturday

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 673 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 29 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 131,871 cases, including 6,289 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 21,844 specimens for a total of 1,168,945. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 6-June 12 is 3%.

June 12, 3:50 p.m.

Central Illinois Update

A day after nearly four dozen staff and residents of a Jacksonville nursing home, Aperion Care, tested positive for COVID-19, Morgan County reported one additional case on Friday. The man in his 80s is hospitalized. The county has had 106 total cases and two deaths.

Sangamon County Department of Public Health said there were no new cases as of Friday. The overall total remains 377 with 33 deaths. Currently, two Sangamon County residents are hospitalized after being diagnosed with the coronavirus disease.

Macon County has confirmed 206 people with COVID-19 since the pandemic started. That includes one additional person announced on Friday.

June 12, 3:30 p.m.

Latest Statewide COVID-19 Numbers

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 595 new cases of coronavirus disease in Illinois, including 77 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 131,198 cases, including 6,260 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 24,774 specimens for a total of 1,147,101. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 5–June 11 is four percent.

June 11, 5:30 p.m.

Area Update

Sangamon County is reporting four more people with the coronavirus disease. There are two people hospitalized. Overall, the number of cases is 377, including 33 deaths.

Macon County has one newly confirmed COVID-19 case, bringing the total to 205 this year.

Pike County has reported it's second case of COVID-19, a woman in her 40s, recovering in isolation. The county's health department said those in contact woith the individual have been notified and are in quarantine.

June 11, 5:05 p.m.

Outbreak, One Death Reported At Jacksonville Nursing Home

Nearly four dozen residents and staff at a Jacksonville rehabilitation and nursing home have tested positive for the coronavirus disease. One death of an individual at the facility is also being reported.

34 residents and 13 staff at Aperion Care have been confirmed to have COVID-19. A 44-year old man, diagnosed on Thursday, was transported to Passavant Hospital where he died. This is Morgan County’s second death of the disease since the pandemic began.

A statement from Aperion said it’s following CDC guidelines and that visitors are prohibited. Staff reporting for work are being screened beforehand.

The Morgan County Health Department said the residents testing positive are isolated at the facility. Staff members with COVID-19 are recovering at home.

June 11, 2:30 p.m.

Statewide COVID-19 Total For Thursday

The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced 766 new cases of coronavirus disease in Illinois, including 91 additional confirmed deaths. IDPH is reporting a total of 130,603 cases, including 6,185 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 22,325 specimens for a total of 1,122,327. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 4 –June 10 is 4%.

June 11, 2:00 p.m.

UIS Presents Friday Business Webinar

The University of Illinois Springfield Office of Economic Development and Innovation, College of Business and Management, College of Public Affairs and Administration and Innovate Springfield will host a free public webinar on “All IN 4U and other opportunities for small businesses: Changes to paycheck protection program and local business activities.”

The webinar will be offered 12-1 p.m. Friday, June 12, and will be led by Bruce Sommer, UIS director of economic development and innovation.

Ryan McCrady, president and CEO at Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance, will discuss a collaborative new initiative called “All IN 4U” that was just launched aimed to unify local businesses around a pledge to ensure the health, safety and confidence of customers and employees. Lisa Clemmons Stott, executive director at Downtown Springfield, Inc., will discuss business experiences operating under easing restrictions. Kevin Lust, director of Illinois Small Business Development Center at Lincoln Land Community College, will discuss the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPPFA) that was signed into law on June 5. It is intended to address limits of the original plan that provide small business relief due to stay-at-home orders.

Participants are encouraged to register for the event at go.uis.edu/COVIDwebinar, However registration is not required.

June 10, 4:45 p.m.

Daily Central Illinois Update

Morgan County reported three more people diagnosed with COVID-19. One of those testing positive is an infant, who is recuperating at home. There have now been 58 cases in the county since the pandemic began and eleven reported in the past two days.

Macon County Wednesday announced anotehr person confirmed to have the coronavirus disease. There have been 204 cases in the county.

Sangamon County saw two more COVID-19 cases for a total of 375.

June 10, 4:10 p.m.

Changes In Visitor Policies At Hospitals

Visitor restrictions put in place at Memorial Health System (MHS) and HSHS Illinois hospitals in March have been updated due to a decline in COVID-19 numbers in central and southern Illinois.

Visitors will still be required to wear a mask at all times while in the hospitals and should expect to be screened.

Visitors will now be permitted as follows:

Emergency department: One visitor who must remain in the patient’s room for the duration of visit.
Inpatient adult: One visitor during the hours of 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Inpatient end-of-life: Two visitors at a time.
Obstetrics patients: One support person.
Pediatrics (inpatient and outpatient): Two parents/guardians.
Surgery (inpatient and outpatient): One visitor in the waiting room only for the duration of the surgical procedure.
Outpatient diagnostic and therapy services: Patients being provided outpatient services are encouraged to come alone whenever possible or have visitors wait outside until services are complete.
Patients with intellectual and/or developmental disability or cognitive impairments: One support person.
Memorial Physician Services, Memorial Express Care or DMG Medical Group: Members of the same household or one non-household support person may accompany a patient to an appointment.
Transitional Care Unit at MHS’ Passavant Area Hospital: Visitors are still not permitted, under restrictions from the Illinois Department of Public Health for long-term care.

The changes took effect Monday at MHS hospitals and will take effect Thursday, June 11 at HSHS hospitals. Children under 16 are not permitted to visit hospitals, unless they are the parent of a child receiving care.
June 10. 2:40 p.m.

Statewide IDPH COVID-19 Report

On Wednesday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 625 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 78 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 129,837 cases, including 6,095 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 20,820 specimens for a total of 1,100,002. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 3 -June 9 is 4%.

June 9, 6:00 p.m.

Central Illinois COVID-19 Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports one new death. The patient was a male in his 80’s who tested positive for COVID-19 on May 11th. He was an inpatient at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. The department also announced four new positive cases. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 371, including 33 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

The Morgan County Health Department reports eight additional people have been diagnosed with the coronavirus disease. Only one is hospitalized. The others are isolating at home. The county’s total since the pandemic began is 55.

June 9, 3:00 p.m.

IDPH COVID-19 Medical Update - Deaths Surpass 6,000

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 797 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 95 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 129,212 cases, including 6,018 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 20,309 specimens for a total of 1,079,182. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 2 -June 8 is 4%.

Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, IDPH is now reporting both confirmed and probable cases and deaths on its website. Reporting probable cases will help show the potential burden of COVID-19 illness and efficacy of population-based non-pharmaceutical interventions. See CDC definition of a probable case on its website. IDPH will update these data once a week.

June 8, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health has announced two new positive cases in the county. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 367, including 32 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 8, 3:45 p.m.

COVID-19 IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 658 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 23 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 128,415 cases, including 5,924 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 16,099 specimens for a total of 1,058,873. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from June 1-June 7 is 5%.

June 7, 3:00 p.m.

Daily IDPH Medical Update

On Sunday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 867 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 43 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 127,757 cases, including 5,904 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 20,700 specimens for a total of 1,042,774. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 31-June 6 is 5%.

June 6, 4:45 p.m.

One Additional COVID-19 Death in Sangamon County

On Saturday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced one new death in Sangamon County. The patient was a female in her 70’s who tested positive for COVID-19 on May 11th. She was an inpatient at Memorial Medical Center. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 365, including 32 deaths. Currently, two confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 6, 3:45 p.m.

Daily IDPH Medical Update

On Saturday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 975 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 72 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 126,890 cases, including 5,864 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 21,155 specimens for a total of 1,022,074. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 30-June 5 is 5.5%.

June 5, 5:30 p.m.

Decatur's Scovill Zoo To Re-open June 8th

Scovill Zoo will re-open for the season on Monday, June 8 for daily operation from 9:30 A.M – 6:00 P.M. with last admission one hour before closing. The petting zoo and herpaquarium will remain closed because of COVID-19 restrictions. Additional zoo amenities including the Z.O.&O. Train and Endangered Species Carousel are closed until further notice.

To avoid long lines and large gatherings, visitors and members are asked to adopt a new process of visiting the zoo by booking tickets online at scovillzoo.com or checking for available capacity by calling 421-7435 during open hours before attending the facility. Walk-ups will be limited.

The facility will open within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Phase 3 guidelines set for outdoor recreation - staff wearing face coverings and using sneeze guards at admission, enforcing social distancing guidelines and displaying “6 feet apart” signage, following CDC cleaning and disinfecting protocols of all shared equipment and common areas, encouraging online ticket purchasing to reserve admission times, keeping high touch point areas like water fountains inoperable, encouraging guests to wear face coverings and avoid touching facility accessories.

June 5, 5:15 p.m.

Central Illinois COVID-19 Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced two new positive cases on Friday. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 365 including 31 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

The Morgan County Health Department reports three additional cases, all of whom are are recovering at home. There has been a total of 45 cases in the county since the pandemic began.

The Macon County Joint Crisis Communication Team reported the death of a Macon County resident with COVID-19, bringing the number of fatalities in the county to 21. The resident was a male in his 70s. Thus far, 4,148 tests have been performed in Macon County. There are no newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Macon County, The overall number of confirmed cases in the county remains at 200.

June 5, 3:15 p.m.

Daily IDPH Medical Update - Over One Million Tests Performed

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,156 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 59 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 125,915 cases, including 5,795 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 18,903 specimens for a total of 1,000,919. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 29-June 4 is 6%.

A pet cat recently tested positive for COVID-19 after becoming sick in mid-May. The cat was in a home with people who had tested positive. This is the first animal to test positive for the virus in Illinois. There is no evidence COVID-19 is transmitted from animal to humans. However, if you are sick, you should distance yourself from pets as well as people.

June 4, 5:30 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Update

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports four new positive cases od COVID-19 in the county. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 363, including 31 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 4, 2:30 p.m.

IDPH Statewide COVID-19 Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 929 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 116 additional confirmed deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 124,759 cases, including 5,736 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 22,841 specimens for a total of 982,016. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 28-June 3 is 6%.

June 4, 2:00 p.m.

Two COVID-19 Cases in Thompson Federal Prison

Two inmates transferred from Chicago to a federal prison in Thomson have tested positive for COVID-19. The inmates were transferred in late April, after the Chicago prison already had a confirmed outbreak.

U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos and Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth released a statement chastising the Bureau of Prisons for failing to “protect inmates, correctional staff, and the greater communities at large,” with comprehensive testing. They called on the Bureau to thoroughly implement contact tracing at Thomson and address understaffing at the facility.

The confirmed cases follow Thomson’s recent removal from a list of quarantine sites for new federal inmates, and a call from lawmakers to test all inmates for COVID-19 prior to transfer.

June 3, 5:45 p.m.

Sangamon County COVID-19 Updates

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports two new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 359, including 31 deaths. Currently, three confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

June 3, 4:00 p.m.

Springfield and Sangamon County Mass Transit Service Plan

The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) has released their plan to restore service to pre-COVID-19 levels. SMTD plans to restore service based on ridership trends. SMTD is providing approximately 2,100 rides per weekday (down 60% from 4,500 or 5,000). The threshold to go back to near-full service will be 3,000 rides per day. However, that increase in service will not include the routes to Chatham, Riverton, Rochester, and Sherman, and passengers will still be required to wear a face-covering to ride.

SMTD plans to bring back service to the outlying communities sometime in the fall. Until then, passengers in those communities can continue to schedule rides through SMTD’s Access paratransit service. That number is (217) 522-8594.

In late March, SMTD reduced weekday service to former Saturday schedules (an approximate reduction of 40%) and reduced Saturday schedules to hourly service. Night service was reduced by two hours to end at 9:00 PM, and service to Chatham, Riverton, Rochester, and Sherman was suspended. Additionally, only essential travel was allowed, passengers were asked to board at the rear doors, fare requirements were suspended, and passengers were required to wear a face-covering to ride. Most of those reductions and requirements remain in effect.

June 3, 3:00 p.m.

Statewide IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health reports 982 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 97 additional deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 123,830 cases, including a total of 5,621 deaths. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 24,471 specimens for a total of 959,175 tests. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 27-June 2 is 6%.

June 3, 12:45 p.m.

Springfield Downtown Parking

Downtown Springfield meter parking will remain free through June 30, 2020.

However, the Office of Public Works Vehicle Parking Division will begin issuing citations for vehicles exceeding their park time and not adhering to the posted times on the signs. With businesses beginning to open and offices returning to work, it is important to keep traffic moving to allow as many people as possible the chance to visit downtown businesses.

Parking illegally or in an unlawful area including bus or loading zones, no parking, and accessible spaces is enforceable 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

June 3, 12:40 p.m.

Lincoln Library Drop Off & Pick Up

Springfield's Lincoln Library has begun curbside pickup of materials. To place a hold on materials, please call 217-753-4900. Patrons may also return books in the book drops on Seventh Street. Staff cannot accept returns at curbside pickup.

Curbside pickup takes place on the north side of the library, in the drive next to the Municipal Center building. Those participating in the library curbside pickup are asked to stay on the right side of the drive and pull into the designated parking spots marked with a blue bag. Those utilizing the CWLP payment window should stay left when pulling into the drive.

Any material checked out before the pandemic is still due June 30, 2020, to prevent all materials being returned at once. For information on other library services during the pandemic recovery, visit https://bit.ly/3dhr34b.

June 3, 12:30 p.m.

Springfield Municipal Center Update

Both Municipal Center buildings (300 S. Seventh Street and 800 E. Monroe) are open between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., but with limited public access. It is still recommended people call first to make an appointment or to talk with a city department to see other available options that may not require an in-person visit. A city directory is available at springfield.il.us or 217-789-2000. At this time, the Municipal Center Complex grounds will remain closed until further notice.

COVID-19 Related Changes at Springfield's City Hall

Face coverings are required to enter the building and must be worn through the duration of the visit. It is requested that no more than two people per household access the building. No more than ten people will be in the lobby at one time. Those who are not feeling well or are experiencing flu-like symptoms should stay home.

The City Council Chambers are still closed to the public. Anyone wishing to speak at any of the upcoming meetings, whether it is City Council or a Boards or Commission meeting may contact the Springfield City Clerk’s Office at 217-789-2216 or email city.clerk@springfield.il.us on how to join a meeting.

June 2, 5:50 p.m.

U-of-I System Reacts to Revenue Loss from COVID-19

The University of Illinois system president Tim Killeen has announced several measures the institution is taking to deal with the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The university system is estimating losses of more than 150 million dollars across its campuses in Urbana, Chicago, and Springfield through this month.

Killeen issued guidance urging units across the U of I system to immediately stop hiring and only fill vacant positions that are critical. Killeen also announced that he and other top officials across the U of I system’s campuses would take a 10 percent pay cut for six months of the upcoming academic year.

Killeen says he's hopeful that the university will not need to implement furloughs, across the board budget and pay cuts, or lay-offs.

June 2, 5:45 p.m.

Curbside Liquor Sales Allowed in Illinois

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed a measure into law allowing bars and restaurants to offer curbside liquor sales. The law is designed to spur business at bars and restaurants across the state that have suffered due to stay-at-home orders during the coronavirus outbreak. The law requires that mixed drinks to be sold in sealed containers and allows mixed drink sales for one year. The new law also gives an extension for renewing liquor licenses.

June 2, 5:30 p.m.

COVID-19 Update for Central Illinois

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports two new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 357, including 31 deaths. Currently, four confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized with the disease.

Morgan County officials are reporting one new case, a man in his 40’s who is recuperating at home. It’s the 39th overall case in Morgan county.

June 2, 4:45 p.m.

IDPH Coronavirus Update for Tuesday

The Illinois Department of Public Health reports 1,614 additional people diagnosed with the COVID-19. An additional 113 people have died. The total number of confirmed cases is 122,848, including 5,525 deaths, since the pandemic began.

Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 16,431 tests for a total of 934,704. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 26-June 1 is 7%.

June 1, 3:35 p.m.

Central Illinois Numbers

Sangamon County's Department of Public Health said two new cases have been reported as of Monday. The total during the pandemic is 356 with 31 deaths. Six residents confirmed to have COVID-19 are hospitalized.

Macon County health officials announced one new case of COVID-19 for a total of 196. There have been 3,690 tests performed in the county.

Greene County has had one new case as of Monday, bringing the total to seven. Five of those individuals have recovered.

Morgan County reported two more people testing positive, both children who are recovering at home. They are the 37th and 38th cases in the county.

June 1, 3:00 p.m.

IDPH Coronavirus Update

The latest totals from the state Department of Public Health show another 974 people diagnosed with the coronavirus disease. Another 23 individuals with COVID-19 have died within the past day. IDPH is reporting an overall total of 121,234 cases, including 5,412 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois since the pandemic began.

June 1, 10:00 a.m.

Face Coverings Required At Sangamon County Complex

Beginning June 1, facial coverings will be required to be worn by anybody entering the Sangamon County Complex. The Illinois Supreme Court Guidelines for Resuming Illinois Judicial Branch Operations During the COVID-19 Pandemic recommends that all practical measures should be taken within the courthouse and courtrooms to ensure a clean environment and prevent the spread of the virus.

The masks or face coverings are mandated at the courthouse to protect the general public as well as employees who may be unable to practice social distancing measures while conducting courthouse business.

The covering shall be worn in a manner that prevents mouth and nasal openings from exposure to direct air particles. Those with certain medical conditions and children under the age of two are exempt from the facial covering requirement.?

June 1, 9:30 a.m.

SOS Offices Closing Early Monday

Secretary of State office buildings in Springfield are closing today at 2 p.m.

The Springfield buildings impacted include, but are not limited to, the following: The Howlett Building, the Illinois State Library, the Herndon Building and the Driver Services facility located at 2701 S. Dirksen Parkway. All of the buildings will reopen tomorrow, June 2.

Out of an abundance of caution and after conferring with law enforcement, these buildings are being closed at 2 p.m. today to protect the public and employees.

May 31, 5:00 p.m.

State Public Health Numbers

The Illinois Department of Public Health Sunday announced 1,462 more people have tested postive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, along with 61 additional deaths. Overall, IDPH said 118,917 people have the disease, including 5,330 deaths, in 101 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years.

May 30, 5:15 p.m.

Sangamon County Medical Update

On Saturday, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced one new positive case of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 354, including 31 deaths.

Currently, six confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

May 30, 5:00 p.m.

IDPH Medical Update for Saturday

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,462 new cases on Saturday with 61 additional deaths. Overall, the state has confirmed 118,917 cases since the pandemic began. 5,330 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 25,343 specimens for a total of 877,105. The statewide seven day rolling positivity rate for May 23-29 is 7%.

May 29, 5:00 p.m

Central Illinois COVID-19 Updates

Sangamon County

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health announced four new cases and one death, a woman in her 80s who was a resident at Centennial Pointe Senior Living.

The total number of cases in Sangamon County is 353, including 31 deaths. Six patients with COVID-19 from Sangamon County are currently hospitalized.

Central Illinois Update

The county reports 11 confirmed cases in Logan County, with 10 people who have recovered, and no COVID-19 related deaths, according to health officials there.

The Cass County Department of Public Health reports no new COVID-19 cases. Overall, there are 72 cases in the county, with two patients hospitalized. Sixty-five individuals have recovered, and there haven't been any deaths.

Christian County health officials also report no new cases, and 34 confirmed cases, including four deaths.

The Macon County Department of Public Health reports two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number to 194 cases, including 19 deaths.

Morgan County is reporting its 35th person with COVID-19. The latest is a female in her teens who is isolating at home.

May 29, 3:00 p.m.

COVID-19 Almost Reaches Every County In Illinois

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,622 new cases of COVID-19, and 86 deaths. The department is reporting a total of 117,455 cases, including 5,270 deaths.

The virus has been found in 101 of the state’s 102 counties. Edgar County, one of the two counties that has yet to report a case, now has one case.

The seven-day statewide positivity for cases from May 22-28 is 8%.

Pritzker Replaces Daily Briefings

Governor J.B. Pritzker said daily briefings, which he has held since March, will be replaced by news conferences on an as-needed basis.

Meanwhile, the Illinois Department of Public Health will continue to update daily testing and case numbers by news release.

May 29, 2:20 p.m.

Diocese of Springfield To Hold Mass

In-person Catholic Masses will return next weekend, the Diocese of Springfield announced. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki granted permission for public Masses to be celebrated beginning the weekend of June 6, with attendance limited to 25% capacity.

Parishes will also be required to have a Parish Response Team in place if any attendees test positive for COVID-19.

Springfield Sliders Season Canceled

The Prospect League, the collegiate summer baseball league the The Sliders play in, announced it’s calling off all games this summer. The Sliders usually play at Robin Roberts Stadium on Springfield’s north end.

A message from the league indicated the decision was based on varying guidelines for safety, limits on public gatherings and travel across the five states that are home to Prospect League teams.

The league is preparing to hold games in 2021.

Covid-19 Death At Centennial Pointe Senior Living

A resident of Centennial Pointe Senior living has died from COVID-19. Five residents at the have tested positive, including the person who died.

All residents and staff will be tested again today, Friday May 29th.

Sangamon County Residents Take Survey On Phase 3 Reopening

More than 1,400 Sangamon County residents responded to a survey this week gauging how they are feeling heading into today’s Phase 3 reopening.

Participants are ready to get their haircut, go shopping, and visit the doctor, according to the local economic development agencies that conducted the survey. A majority plan to wait longer to visit a museum or ticketed arts performance, work out in a gym, or be inside a bar.

Survey results can be found here.

White Oak Malls Reopens

White Oaks Mall will open to customers today, and has issued rules and safety guidelines for shoppers and employees.

There will be certain entrance points into the mall, and floor decals to help practice social distancing. Play areas, vending, and strollers will remain closed for now.

Hand sanitizers will be at high-touch customer points, such as ATM’s.

May 28 5:50 p.m.
Churches Free To Gather. Gov. Recommends Against It

Governor JB Pritzker Thursday announced new guidance for churches and places of worship. It comes as he faces multiple lawsuits over his ban on gatherings of more than ten people.

Pritzker now says faith leaders should try to limit attendance to a quarter of a building’s capacity or 100 attendees, whichever is lower, along with social distancing.

“We're not providing restrictions. We're simply providing the best recommendations that we can for keeping people safe so we hope that the pastor will follow those got that guides and those recommendations for his services, his or her services,” he said.

The Illinois Department of Public Healthis still calling for outdoor or remote services when possible, along with cleaning protocols.

The conservative Thomas More Society responded to the changes by claiming victory and saying Pritzker used the pandemic “to stomp on the religious liberty of the people of Illinois.”

May 28, 5:40 p.m.

Latest Sangamon County #

The Sangamon County Department of Public Health reports six new positive cases of COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents with confirmed cases is 349 including 30 deaths. Currently, eight confirmed positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

May 28, 4:10 p.m.
Macon County Update

The Macon County Health Department reports three new cases of COVID-19 in Macon County. There have been 192 cases in the county with 19 fatalities.

May 28, 4:00 p.m.
COVID-19 Death in Macoupin County

The Macoupin County Health death say a man in his 80's is the county's second fatality as a result of COVID-19. There have been 45 cases in the county with two people currently hospitalized.

May 28, 3:45 p.m.
Seminar on Business Re-opening Friday

SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield Office of Economic Development and Innovation, College of Business and Management, College of Public Affairs and Administration and Innovate Springfield will host a free public webinar on “Reopening: What You Need to Know” exploring state guidelines for businesses and consumer demand during COVID-19.
The webinar will be offered 12-1 p.m. Friday, May 29.

Jonathan McGee, acting deputy director of regional economic development at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will speak about the Restore Illinois plan’s phase three guidelines for reopening businesses.

Kevin Lust, director of Illinois Small Business Development Center at Lincoln Land Community College, will present on “Back to Business: What Not to Miss.”

Innovate Springfield Executive Director Katie Davison will analyze data from a new survey of local consumers that asked to what level they plan to start patronizing local businesses, and the safety measures they want in place that would give them confidence to return to more normal shopping patterns.

Participants are encouraged to register for the event at go.uis.edu/COVIDwebinar<https://go.uis.edu/COVIDwebinar>,

May 28, 250 p.m.
1527 New COVID-19 Cases. State Moving To Phase Three

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced 1,527 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 104 additional deaths.

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 115,833 cases, including 5,186 deaths, in 100 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 25,993 specimens for a total of 829,966. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from May 21–May 27 is 8.3%

The metrics for the past month have been met statewide and will allow all areas to move to phase three of business re-opening.

May 28, 1:42 p.m.
Two Active COVID-19 Cases in Morgan

WLDS-WEAI reports that Morgan County Health Department says the county is down to two active ases out of the 34 reported in the county. There has been one death attributed to the virus.

May 28, 10:40 a.m.

Music Series Cancelled

Springfield's Levitt Amp Music Series scheduled for this summer has been postponed until 2021.

There will still be music this summer, thanks to the Levitt Foundation. Springfield will be featured in the National Levitt AMP Virtual Music Series, taking place online from June 1 – August 28, 2020, with concerts airing twice a week(Site TBA).

The Springfield-based trio The Deep Hollow will be Springfield’s featured musicians in the Levitt AMP Virtual Music Series (air date, July 24). The band had been scheduled to play Springfield’s planned 2020 season on the Y Block that would have started tonight.

May 27, 6:15 p.m.

Central Illinois Medical Update

In Sangamon County, there are five new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, and one additional death, a resident of the Villas Senior Community care facility. The total number of Sangamon county residents with confirmed cases is 343, including a total of 30 deaths. Currently, nine comnfirmed cases in the county are hospitalized.

There are two newly-confirmed cases in Macon county, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 189, including 19 deaths.

May 27, 5:45 p.m.

Twenty-Fourth COVID-19 Death at the Villas Senior Care Community

There has been one new death at The Villas Senior Care Community in Sherman. The patient was a female resident in her 80’s who tested positive for COVID-19 on April 22nd.

The total number of confirmed positives include sixty-two residents and forty-six staff members, for a total of one hundred eight cases, including twenty-four deaths.

Currently, no residents or staff members are hospitalized.

May 27, 2:45 p.m.

IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,111 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, with 160 additional deaths. Overall, the state has confirmed 114,306 cases since the pandemic began. Of those, 5,083 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 17,179 specimens for a total of 803,973 tests performed.

The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity rate from May 20-26 is 8.6%.

As of midnight last night, there were 3,826 patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Of those, 1,031 (27%) were in intensive care and 592 (15%) on ventilators.

May 27, 9:00 a.m.

Drivers Services Offices Reopening Next Week

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced his office’s reopening plan beginning June 1. The first two months will focus on serving only new drivers, customers with expired driver’s licenses/ID cards and vehicle transactions. Currently there are more than 700,000 expired driver’s licenses/ID cards and 1.9 million expired vehicle registrations.

All Secretary of State departments and offices will be open for business on June 1. The reopening dates and locations for Driver Services facilities statewide are as follows:

June 1 – Springfield-Dirksen facility hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 2 – Tuesday through Saturday facilities (all Driver Services facilities statewide outside Chicago metro area) will open Tuesday, June 2. Hours of operation are Tuesday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Wednesday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to noon.

May 26, 5:12 p.m.

Sangamon County Man Dies Of COVID-19, Two More Confirmed Cases

A Sangamon County man in his 50s has died of COVID-19 at Memorial Medical Center. He tested positive for the disease a month ago, according to a news release from the Sangamon County Department of Public Health.

The department also reports two additional cases, bringing the total count of confirmed cases to 338, including 29 deaths.

Nine county residents are currently hospitalized. More than 5,000 have been tested.

May 26, 2:50 p.m.

IDPH Medical Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,178 new cases on Tuesday with 39 additional deaths. Overall, the state has confirmed 113,195 cases since the pandemic began. Of those, 4,923 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 17,230 specimens for a total of 786,794.

This marks the first week since the beginning of the pandemic that the total number of deaths in a week has been lower than the previous week.

May 26, 2:45 p.m.

Virtual Star Party

The University of Illinois Springfield Astronomy-Physics Program and Sangamon Astronomical Society will host an online star-watching party on May 30, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The link for the Zoom event will be posted onlineand participation is capped at 300 connections.

John Martin, UIS associate professor of astronomy/physics, will give tips for finding planets and constellations and answer astronomy questions submitted live.

The organizations are also planning three, in-person parties, 8:30-10:30 p.m. June 27, July 25 and Aug. 11 (a special Perseid Meteor Shower viewing party) at Lincoln Memorial Garden, located on the shores of Lake Springfield.

More information is on UIS’ website, and any changes to in-person events due to COVID-19 or weather will be posted there.

May 25, 2:30 p.m.

IDPH Medical Update for Monday

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,713 new cases on Monday with 31 additional deaths. Overall, the state has confirmed 112,017 cases since the pandemic began. 4,884 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 21,643 specimens for a total of 769,564. The statewide seven day rolling positivity rate for May 16-22 is 12-percent.

May 24, 5:45 p.m.

Business Reopening Guidelines

The Prtizker Adminsitration has released specific rules that allow for the safe reopening of businesses in Phase 3, which could take effect as soon as Friday.

May 24, 5:20 p.m.

Central Illinois Report

One additional person has been confirmed to have COVID-19. The total number of Sangamon County residents who have been diagnosed is 336, with many having recovered. The number of deaths in the county is 28. Currently, ten positive Sangamon County residents are hospitalized.

The Macon County Health Department reported the 19th person in the county with COVID-19 has died. The victim was a man in his 60s. There were no new cases on Sunday, leaving the county's overall count at 185.

May 24, 5:00 p.m.

Statewide Update

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 2,508 new cases Sunday with 67 additional deaths. Overall, the state has confirmed 110,304 cases since the pandemic began. 4,856 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 25,674 specimens for a total of 747,921. The statewide seven-day rolling positivity rate for May 15-21 is 12-percent.