The latest on the rise of winter respiratory diseases in Illinois

Respiratory illnesses are surging across Illinois. Hospitals are reporting a significant uptick in cases of flu, COVID, and RSV. Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues changing vaccine schedules for children — putting official guidance at odds with advice from professional medical organizations. The flu in particular has been prevalent this year. That’s because of a mutated strain known as “subclade K.”

An official from the Illinois Department of Public Health discusses what causes a more severe year for respiratory diseases, and how we can keep ourselves safe. 

GUEST

Dr. Arti Barnes 
Chief Medical Officer, Illinois Department of Public Health