Overall Respiratory Illness Level Back To 'Moderate' In IL: IDPH

Illinois has moved back down to a "moderate" level for overall respiratory illness level, after it was at a "high" level the previous week. Current data is from Dec. 28 to Jan. 3, according to IDPH.

"While overall respiratory illness levels are back down to moderate, respiratory trends continue to rise and flu activity remains high," IDPH said on its Facebook page.

Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across the United States, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least 15 million people have gotten sick, and 7,400 people have died from the flu this season. At least 17 of those who died were children.

The CDC said the current influenza wave is still expected to last several weeks.

IDPH said flu activity in the state is high, while RSV and COVID-19 activity are both at moderate levels.

Hospital admissions from respiratory illnesses in Illinois continue to trend upward. According to IDPH, hospital admissions for COVID-19 are at 2.04 percent, 5.95 percent from flu and .67 percent from RSV.

The previous season's peak hospital admissions due to flu was 6.9 percent on Feb. 8, 2025.

While anyone can potentially become seriously ill from seasonal respiratory illnesses, the most susceptible are the very young, very old, pregnant individuals, and those who are immunocompromised or have other underlying health conditions.

IDPH advises washing your hands often; covering coughs and sneezes; staying home if you're sick; consider wearing a mask, especially in crowded, indoor spaces; and getting your annual flu and COVID-19 shots.