Chicago is experiencing a surge in respiratory illness cases as flu season kicks into high gear. Data from the Chicago Department of Public Health shows that 18.3% of tested individuals have contracted influenza, while 14.1% have RSV and 4.9% COVID-19.
According to infectious disease physician Michael Lin, “Respiratory viruses tend to spike in the winter months when people gather indoors.” Local hospitals have increased masking requirements due to the spike in cases. University of Chicago Medicine requires all staff to wear masks in patient areas, while OSF Healthcare is limiting hospital visitors to two adults per patient.
Lin recommends getting vaccinated or boosting immunity with a flu shot or updated COVID-19 booster if you haven’t already. RSV vaccines are also recommended for older adults and those at higher risk.
The key takeaway from Lin’s advice is to stay home if feeling sick, especially in crowded areas, and take precautions like masking when possible. While the pandemic has taught us much about COVID-19, its long-term effects remain unknown.
As flu season typically peaks by late April or early May, residents are advised to be prepared for another round of respiratory illnesses in the coming months.
Source: https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/01/06/flu-rsv-cases-spike-as-respiratory-virus-season-in-chicago-hits-full-swing