Health & Fitness
Occupational Health Physician Urges Chicagoans to Get Vaccinated
Dr. David Fletcher, Public Health Expert in Illinois says Triple Threat of Viruses is Leading to Spike in Hospitalizations/Deaths
CHICAGO, IL, Jan. 24, 2024 -- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 hospitalizations have risen 20 percent and deaths are up 12 percent over the past week and specialists agree the severity of the virus is reaching peak levels in many states throughout the U.S.
Because of the uptick in respiratory illnesses, most hospitals nationwide have reinstituted mask mandates. The Illinois Department of Public Health has advised hospitals to step up safety and prevention efforts, and Rush University Medical Center and Cook County Health have called for masking of patients and medical professionals.
With more people back at work and in close quarters, the Centers for Disease Control expects outbreaks this winter season, and with the triple threat of Covid-19, flu, and RSV, doctors are urging patients to take precautions. David Fletcher M.D., public health specialist and CEO of SafeWorks Illinois, advises individuals and companies to take measures to prevent the spread of viruses and bacterial-related illnesses over the winter months.
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“The latest variant, JN.1, is highly contagious and is driving transmissions, but the newest booster is helping to prevent the spread,” Dr. Fletcher says. “Yet only 20 percent of adults have received the latest vaccine. It’s important to get vaccinated -- especially high-risk patients who have underlying health conditions or are immunosuppressed.”
Dr. Fletcher provided some easy tips on how to prevent the spread of illnesses in the office or crowded spaces:
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• Wear a well-fitted mask when among people in confined areas.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds.
• Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer at your workstation.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Stay home if you have symptoms and avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Do not share cups or eating utensils with others.
• Clean or disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, and phones.
Dr. David Fletcher has practiced in Champaign for 22 years. In addition to being the Medical Director and CEO of SafeWorks Illinois, he is board-certified in occupational and preventive medicine, a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO), a certified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), and a Senior Federal Aviation Administration Examiner. He serves as a safety and prevention consultant guiding Illinois companies on ways to prevent the spread of viruses/infectious diseases and keep employees safe.
SafeWorks Illinois offers comprehensive occupational health services and return-to-work programs to create safe, drug-free businesses and industries. The company’s goal is to promote safety and wellness in the workplace. It achieves results by developing prevention programs and providing injury treatment and rehabilitation services to help employees recover and return to work. SafeWorks Illinois has extensive experience helping businesses reduce injuries, lower costs, and promote a safe work environment.