SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging residents to get vaccinated and take preventive measures as influenza activity across the state has climbed to “Very High,” the most severe category used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

State health officials report that flu activity has intensified in recent days, mirroring national trends. COVID-19 activity in Illinois has also increased and is currently classified at a “Moderate” level.

Illinois has reported its first pediatric death from influenza this season. Nationally, nine pediatric flu-related deaths have been recorded so far this season. During the 2024–25 season, Illinois reported 12 pediatric flu deaths, along with deaths linked to RSV and COVID-19.

According to state vaccination data, 21.9 percent of Illinois residents have received a flu shot this season, while 6.8 percent have received a COVID-19 vaccination. Health officials say increasing immunization rates remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and reduce hospitalizations.

The department continues to stress that young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk for complications from seasonal respiratory illnesses.

IDPH recommends residents take several steps to reduce the spread of illness, including receiving recommended vaccines, washing hands frequently, staying home when sick if possible, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks when ill, and minimizing close contact with sick individuals. Antiviral treatments are also available and are most effective when started early in the course of illness.

Data on influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses is updated weekly on the IDPH Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard.