Winnebago County hospitals request additional beds to manage surge in COVID-19 patients

ROCKFORD — Additional hospital bed sets have been requested by Winnebago County agencies due to the recent surge in COVID-19 patients in Region 1 hospitals.

Winnebago County Emergency Management, city of Rockford Emergency Management, and the Winnebago County Health Department requested the bed sets from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency through the Regional Hospital Coordinating Center

A bed set includes a bed, headboard with suction and oxygen, HEPA filter, lamp, trunk, tent and chair. The bed set does not include additional medical personnel.

"The increasing rate of COVID-19 infection has stressed the healthcare systems in the region and highlights the consequences of unchecked transmission in the community," officials said in a news release. "All entities should be adhering to the Tier 2 mitigations outlined in Executive Order #2020-62 to protect the community.

"All health systems are working to care for and manage both COVID and non-COVID patients and provide the appropriate level of quality care, but the public’s help is needed NOW."

The release also urged area residents to take the following actions immediately to prevent additional infections:

• Stay home as much as possible.

• Use curbside and delivery options.

• Limit nonessential travel.

• Do not gather outside of your household.

• Wear a face covering when with those outside your household.

• Wash your hands frequently.

• Maintain social distancing.

• If you are sick, stay home.

• Get tested as needed.

• Follow the quarantine and isolation guidelines as provided by your health department to prevent transmission to others.