Grundy Reporter

As winter approaches, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging residents to take measures against seasonal respiratory illnesses. With the holiday season leading to family gatherings and celebrations, public health officials anticipate a rise in such illnesses.

The IDPH has reported a notable increase in whooping cough (pertussis) cases. In October alone, there were 408 cases, marking the highest monthly total in two decades and more than double the number recorded in October 2023. To date, over 1,900 confirmed and probable cases have been documented in Illinois this year, making it the highest since 2012.

To help prevent illness spread during holiday gatherings, IDPH suggests hosts consider areas with good ventilation for guests. They also recommend encouraging good hygiene practices like hand washing and reminding guests to cover their coughs and sneezes.

For further information and guidance on protection measures, residents are encouraged to seek additional resources.