Coronavirus In IL: 12 Cases In McHenry County

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) announced that as of Sunday, there has been 12 identified cases of the coronavirus in McHenry County. On Sunday afternoon, the Illinois Department of Public Health revealed there were now 296 new cases of coronavirus statewide, plus three more deaths. In addition, nine Illinois residents had died after being infected with the coronavirus, health officials announced Sunday.

On Sunday, just days after announcing a statewide stay-at-home order — Gov. J.B. Pritzker demanded additional medical supplies as Illinois hospitals continued to see an increase in coronavirus patients.

Related:

• Coronavirus in Illinois: March 23 Update
• McHenry Co. Health Dept. Offers Guidance For Coronavirus
• Coronavirus In IL: City Of McHenry Puts Restrictions In Place
• Coronavirus in IL: Crystal Lake City Hall Public Lobby Closes
• Coronavirus In IL: State Of Emergency Declared In McHenry County

Meanwhile, only essential businesses — from doctor's offices to grocery stores, pharmacies, and even restaurants offering curbside pickup and packaged liquor sales — remain open during the statewide shutdown. Residents can leave their homes to purchase essentials and do outdoor activities but are reminded to practice social distancing by staying at least 6 feet from others.

The statewide stay-at-home order is in effect until at least April 7, and Illinois schools are closed through at least April 8.

McHenry County Board Chairman Jack Franks declared a state of emergency on March 11 for McHenry County in response to the county's first presumptive case of coronavirus, which activates the emergency operations plans of the McHenry County Department of Health and McHenry County Emergency Management Agency and requests state and federal funding and resources to combat a potential outbreak, according to a news release from government officials.

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Franks recently said slowing the spread of COVID-19 is a top priority.

"The county is supporting its residents and healthcare providers, but there are limits on available tests. We are following Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines to prioritize testing to those most vulnerable in our community" Franks said. "We do not want to overwhelm our healthcare system by sending patients with mild symptoms to doctors' offices and emergency departments."