Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced 128 additional coronavirus cases — an 80% increase — on Wednesday, bringing the state’s total number to 288 infected and one death.
The Illinois Department of Public Health said that the majority of the 288 cases include 178 cases in Cook County, 45 in DuPage County, 18 in Lake County, 4 in McHenry County, and the rest are spread across different counties throughout the state.
Cases have occurred in ages ranging from 9 to 91. Pritzker emphasized during a Wednesday press conference that no place or person is immune from COVID-19.
Pritzker also said that the numbers will get “much worse” before they get better. The Illinois Department of Public Health and state officials have been working around the clock everyday of the week, IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said.
30 residents and 12 staff members at a long-term care facility in DuPage County are included in the updated Wednesday case count, health officials said.
The governor’s office announced they have launched a new website relating to the coronavirus that provides helpful information and resources for residents.
On Tuesday, Pritzker announced that a Chicago woman in her 60s was the first coronavirus-related death in Illinois.
Pritzker activated the Illinois National Guard on Monday. That activation will bring 60 service members to assist with logistical support and medical staffing at hospitals.
Those experiencing coronavirus symptoms should call a health care provider who will help arrange medical treatment in order to not put others at risk of exposure.
The Illinois Department of Public Health has a statewide COVID-19 hotline to answer questions from the public that can be reached at 800-889-3931.