500 Flu, Respiratory Illness Cases In 2 Weeks As Flu Spreads Fast In Will County: Silver Cross Hospital

NEW LENOX, IL — Influenza, more commonly referred to as the flu, is continuing its spread across Will County, and Silver Cross Hospital is asking people to take steps now to stay healthy and protect others.

Over the past two weeks, nearly 500 area residents have been seen at Silver Cross Hospital’s emergency department for flu and other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). More than 100 of them were admitted to the hospital. What’s more, the hospital’s three Urgent Care Centers have seen a percent increase in visits over the past several weeks.

“These numbers show that flu activity is very high right now in our community,” said Dr. Christopher Udovich, Chief Medical Officer. “But there are simple things you can do to lower your risk of getting sick.”

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• Flu Cases Surging, Respiratory Illness 'Very High' In Illinois
• 1st Pediatric Death Of Flu Season Reported In IL: IDPH

With a surge in flu cases in recent days, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced Monday the first pediatric death of the 2025-2026 season. The agency said influenza activity in the state has moved to the "very high" level, the most severe of five categories of respiratory illness activity.

"Illinois is facing a significant winter surge in seasonal respiratory illnesses, with flu activity at very high levels," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. "Vaccinations remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness from flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Simple steps like covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, staying home when sick if you are able, and improving ventilation are also critical to preventing further spread."

Related: Major Changes To Childhood Vaccine Schedule Announced By CDC: What To Know In IL

Illinois has moved from a "moderate" CDC respiratory illness level to "high." Data is from Dec. 21 to Dec. 27.

Flu activity is high or very high in 48 states and jurisdictions, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least 11 million people have gotten sick, and 5,000 people have died from the flu this season as vaccination rates wane. At least nine of those who died were children.

The CDC said the current influenza wave is expected to last several weeks. The agency also noted that RSV activity is elevated in many areas of the country, with emergency room visits and hospitalizations increasing in children under 4. COVID-19 activity is low but increasing nationally.

How to Help Protect Yourself and Others

While anyone can become seriously ill from seasonal respiratory illnesses, those most at risk include the very young, the very old, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions, including compromised immune systems.

To reduce your risk of becoming sick, Dr. Udovich recommends the following:

• Get immunized. With flu season usually peaking between December and February, and lasting until May, it’s not too late to get your flu shot and other immunizations, such as for COVID-19 and RSV (for those who are eligible). For more information on respiratory illness vaccines, view the Illinois Department of Public Health’s immunization guidelines at dph.illinois.gov
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. It’s one of the most effective ways to reduce spread of illness. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective if soap and water are not available.
• Stay home when you are ill, if able, and wear a mask if not.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. Wearing a mask when ill will further help prevent viral spread. An N95 or comparable mask offers the best protection.
• Minimize close contact with sick people.
• Antiviral treatments can minimize symptoms and speed up recovery when started quickly after symptoms emerge. Antiviral treatments for flu are most effective when given within 48 hours of starting to feel ill. For COVID-19, treatment must be started within 5 to 7 days after symptoms appear. Older adults, young children and those who are pregnant or have certain underlying conditions are at risk for complications and should contact a healthcare provider to be assessed for the need for treatment as soon as possible.

“Antiviral treatments can minimize your symptoms and quicken your recovery when they’re started quickly after you experience symptoms,” Dr. Udovich added.

When to Get Medical Help

Most people with the flu can recover at home. But some symptoms need quick medical care.

“Get help right away if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, a very high fever, or feel much worse instead of better,” said Dr. Udovich. “People over age 65, young children, pregnant people, and those with long‑term health problems should call their doctor early if they feel sick.”

If you need care and can’t get in to see your doctor, Silver Cross offers Urgent Care Centers in New Lenox, Mokena and Crest Hill that are open seven days a week. A fourth location is opening at their Orland Park Medical Pavilion at the end of January. You can visit silvercross.org and click on Urgent Care or ER to make an appointment online.

Help Each Other

Staying healthy is a team effort.

“Small actions make a big difference,” said Dr. Udovich. “When we take care of ourselves, we help protect our families, our neighbors, and our healthcare workers.”