McLean County Health Department Representative addresses Illinois COVID-19 levels

Image Courtesy of the McLean County Health Department Facebook page

Despite the CDC reporting elevated incidence rates of COVID-19 at the end of August, Illinois respiratory illness levels are still at a minimum. McLean County Health Department’s Public Affairs Coordinator Marianne Manko explained why incidence rates are higher, and how best to keep them at a minimum. 

“So usually the way this works is, first you get exposed when you either breathe in the virus or you touch the surface and then touch your face,” Manko said. “Then the virus incubates in your body, which can be anywhere from three days to 14, or even longer depending on your immune system.” 

Large gatherings of people can lead to higher infection rates due to the wider range of germs introduced to the environment. Manko outlined some of the annual events that lead to a rise in incidence rates. 

“When school starts, we usually start seeing the spikes a week or two after classes,” Manko said. “After holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s, [just] after people gather.” 

Viruses are not something that can be cured, rather your immune system learns how to live with it over time. Because of this, the best way to combat viruses is to act preventatively. Manko listed some of the most effective ways to prevent the spread.  

“I always tell people the younger and healthier you are, the better vaccines work. Everybody should be getting the flu shot every season so that it protects them from the most recent strains and a COVID-19 vaccine every year.” 

In addition to yearly vaccines, regular hand washing and social distancing as needed will also work preventatively against viruses.