COVID-19 in McHenry County back at ‘high’ level along with other respiratory illnesses

COVID-19 “illness activity” in McHenry County is now at the high level, according to the McHenry County Department of Health.

Respiratory illness, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, continues to spread at a high level in the county. Last week, health officials said in a news release that respiratory illness was surging; during the week of Dec. 15 to 21, COVID-19 levels were “moderate” while flu and RSV were “high.”

Despite being moderate at that time, COVID-19 emergency room visits climbed 57.1%, according to the health department.

In the week of Dec. 22 to 28, the most recent data available and when COVID-19 transmission levels were raised to “high,” emergency room visits went up about 41% ”with most visits among those aged 65 years and older," according to health department reports.

About 3% of all emergency room visits were because of COVID-19, according to the report.

The health department also identified four clusters of COVID-19 cases in long-term care facilities last week, according to the report. The season total is 13.

Flu made up about 8% of emergency room visits, which rose 150% last week. RSV-related emergency room visits rose 50%, with most visits among children ages 4 and younger.

The health department last week said RSV remains of “particular concern for young children and vulnerable populations.”

The department also encouraged people to get their flu, COVID-19 and RSV shots if eligible, wash hands frequently and thoroughly, wear masks when sick or in crowded settings, avoid close contact with sick people and stay home when ill.

The health department also announced that on Jan. 6 it will begin giving free tests for COVID, flu and RSV to those who qualify, by appointment.