The breakout of the coronavirus (Covid-19) around the world is creating economic challenges for Illinois employers and health concerns among the general public. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is in contact with the Governor’s office, Department of Public Health, International Trade Office, and other stakeholders in Illinois to make sure that our members have the most up-to-date information in a rapidly-evolving situation.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, there have been 2 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Illinois with an additional 66 individuals testing negative. Two additional individuals are currently being tested. Illinois was the first state in the nation to begin in-state testing and Chicago O’Hare Airport was one of the first five international airports in the U.S. to conduct screenings.
Information and recommendations from IDPH include:
Symptoms: Common human coronaviruses usually cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses, like the common cold. These illnesses usually only last for a short period of time and symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Transmission: Human coronaviruses are most commonly spread from an infected person to others by coughing and sneezing, close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands, touching an object or surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.
Prevention: The following can help prevent the spread of coronaviruses including washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, and avoid close personal contact with people that are sick. There are currently no vaccines to protect against the human coronavirus.
Treatment: There are no specific treatments. To help relieve symptoms, its is recommended to take pain and fever medications, drink plenty of liquids, and stay home and rest.
IDPH has a hotline (800-889-3931) and email account (DPH.SICK@illinois.gov) if you have general questions.
Additional resources and information that may be helpful include:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Response
- The President’s team offered a press briefing President’s Coronavirus Task Force along with a proclamation suspending the entry of individuals with a risk of transmission.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the CDC are implementing health screenings for travelers.
- Department of Homeland Security issued instructions for inbound flights
- United States Coast Guard Marine Vessel and U.S. Ports provided guidance for vessel owners and port operators.
- The Illinois Department of Public Health is the primary stakeholder in Illinois coordinating activities.
