While COVID-19 metrics have either improved or remained stable throughout most of Illinois in the past week, at least one county has seen a rise in community spread of the virus.
As of Friday, Champaign County was listed as a medium level for COVID transmission, compared to the 101 other counties in Illinois, which were said to be experiencing low community levels.
In a Facebook post, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District advised residents of the change from low to medium community level status, encouraging people to protect themselves and know their risks as Easter weekend gets underway.
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According to the CDC, Champaign County was experiencing 374.84 cases per 100,000, 5.3 new COVID admissions per 100,000 people and 1% of staffed in-person beds in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.
In such counties with medium community levels, people who are at high risk of severe illness from COVID should consult with their physician about whether they should wear a mask or take other precautions.
People in counties with low and medium COVID levels do not need to wear masks.
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In communities within the 'high category, residents are encouraged to wear a mask indoors regardless of vaccination status, and to consider avoiding non-essential indoor activities in public where you could be exposed.
As of Friday, no counties in Illinois were said to be experiencing high transmission, a marked improvement from a week earlier. Last week, Gallatin, Hardin, Pope and Saline counties were listed as having high community levels.
