Chicago is currently experiencing a late-summer surge in COVID cases, according to health leaders. More people are being diagnosed in emergency rooms, but there is some good news on the horizon – new COVID vaccines are on their way to pharmacies. Events like the Democratic and Republican national conventions in Chicago and Milwaukee have contributed to the increase in cases, with large indoor gatherings occurring during this uptick in COVID cases.
Dr. Emily Landon, an infectious disease specialist at UChicago Medicine, noted that the Democratic National Convention happened at the peak of this summer’s COVID outbreak, potentially contributing to the rise in cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between Aug. 11 and 17, 2.5% of emergency room patients were diagnosed with COVID-19, up from 1.7% in July. Chicago is also seeing a similar increase in cases.
Alexander Sloboda, the medical director of immunization and emergency preparedness programs at the Chicago Department of Public Health, emphasized the importance of being vigilant, especially with summer travel and events facilitating the spread of viral illnesses. To combat this surge, CVS pharmacies have started administering the new updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, designed to prevent complications and serious illness. Appointments can be made or individuals can walk in for their COVID vaccines at their local CVS.
Health experts are urging Chicagoans to take advantage of the new vaccine, especially if they have not recently had COVID. Sloboda recommended that everyone over 6 months old should consider getting vaccinated. Dr. Landon added that with half the population potentially still at risk of contracting COVID during this wave, it’s crucial to take precautions and be extra careful.
One challenge in tracking cases of COVID is the increasing number of people taking at-home tests, with many cases not rising to the level of requiring emergency care and therefore going unreported. Health experts are advising individuals to stay home if they have a respiratory illness and, when returning to activities, to wear a mask if experiencing any symptoms.
In conclusion, the current surge in COVID cases in Chicago is a cause for concern, but with the availability of new vaccines and continued vigilance, the city can work towards reducing the spread of the virus. By following the advice of health experts and taking necessary precautions, individuals can help protect themselves and others from COVID-19.
