Important Update on Region 8 Metrics
Today I participated in a Mayor’s phone call with the DuPage County Health Department, where national, state and County COVID-19 case data is shared. As you know, DuPage County is in Region 8. Here is some vital information I want to share with you from that call:
DuPage County is heading in the wrong direction on the COVD-19 front. COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION LEVEL WAS AGAIN REPORTED AS SUBSTANTIAL. We have to do better!
Our positivity rate has been exceeding 8% in the last two days(8.4% posted Sunday, 8.5% posted today) and we are seriously concerned that 3rd consecutive day of + 8% could possibly trigger action by the Governor issuing roll back restrictions. The average age of cases has decreased from 43 overall to 41 years of age in the past two weeks. Recent cases by date have exceeded prior peaks in April/May. Hospitalization rates have increased and are the highest since July. Increased number of cases were reported in the 20-30 and 40-59 age groups with lesser increases in the over 80 age group.
Colder weather is clearly around the corner and means we are all going to be indoors more. What’s next? The Holidays. They are rapidly approaching and we all want to be with our friends and families, but we have to face what we now live in: A COVID-19 world. 2020 has been anything but typical and our normal holiday group get togethers may not be the best thing to do for ourselves or for those we care for. We are going to get through this, but we will need to adjust the way we gather. Here is the IDPH guidelines for holiday get togethers(PDF):
I know we are all suffering COVID fatigue; wearing masks, social distancing, hand washing, and all the news and warnings regarding the pandemic can be draining. I “get it”, I really do, but no matter how mentally exhausted we are about having to take these protective measures, this is what it will take for us to get through this virus. Until there is a vaccine widely available, the routine of the 3 W’s is our best tool in the fight against COVID-19 spread. We all must continue to practice the 3 W’s(Wear a mask, Wash your hands frequently, and Watch your distance) no matter where you are and no matter how old you are. I urge you to read the press releases from DuPage County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health. I know we will do all we can to keep our community safe.
Mayor Frank Trilla