With an uptick in illnesses across Central Illinois for the beginning of school, here’s how to keep safe

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — It’s not just students coming back to Central Illinois — illnesses are also making a return. Doctors say what some community members might be seeing is an uptick in respiratory illnesses or COVID.

One OSF doctor said there is no need to worry because they’re expecting to see these number rise around this time of the year. It’s because students are in a closer areas like class rooms sharing germs.

This month, OSF counted nearly 150 patients who have been seen for respiratory illnesses. They added that this could be related to COVID or any other flu-like symptoms.

“We’re seeing all types of respiratory viruses, you know, and everyone is always hones in on COVID; COVID is one of them that we are seeing,” said Dr. Kurt Bloomstrand. “But there’s many other viral illnesses that we’re seeing. But it’s not been a significant increase like we’ve seen in years past.”

He says there’s a few ways we can stay safe make sure your children are up to date on vaccinations, if you feel sick, stay at home. Wash your hands frequently, make sure you are getting proper rest try to eat healthy.

The CDC said they’ve been seeing fewer hospitalizations and deaths associated with COVID because they have more tools to fight off those illnesses, but they still recommend to practice good hygiene.

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