Westmont, Illinois – Date Issued: January 9, 2026
The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) is urging residents to take precautions as respiratory illnesses are on the rise. According to the latest Respiratory Illness Surveillance report, influenza (flu) activity is high and increasing, while COVID-19 and RSV remain at lower levels but are trending upward.
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- Trending in DuPage County:
- Influenza – High & Increasing
- COVID-19 –Moderate & Increasing
- RSV – Low & Increasing
For the current flu season, an earlier and higher rise in emergency department (ED) visits is being observed compared to this time last year. Over 50 DuPage residents have been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to flu-related illness and complications, including 3 deaths, with 14 ICU admissions reported this past week.
“Respiratory illnesses are on the rise in DuPage County, and less than a third of our community is currently immunized and protected against influenza,” said Adam Forker, DuPage County Health Department Executive Director. “Vaccines are the best defense against getting sick and missing work, school, or family and social events, and it’s not too late to get your flu shot,”
Even though this year’s flu vaccine isn’t a perfect match for every circulating strain, it still reduces the risk of severe illness and helps keep people out of the hospital. While anyone can get the flu, older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of developing serious influenza complications.
To learn about vaccine eligibility, view the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Immunization Recommendations for 2025-2026 Respiratory Virus Season.
With flu season usually peaking between December and February, and lasting until May, it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against flu illness, so getting vaccinated “sooner is better” for your body to build protection.
There are also many simple steps everyone can take to protect themselves and loved ones including:
- Stay up to date with recommended immunizations. Talk to your doctor or trusted healthcare provider about what may be recommended for you and your family.
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective if soap and water are not available.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs regularly.
- Take steps for cleaner air as possible in places where people live and work. Bring as much fresh air in by opening doors and windows and/or using exhaust fans.
- Practice self-care: drink water, eat healthily, stay active, and get plenty of sleep.
- Additional steps individuals can choose that further reduce risk of respiratory illness include testing, wearing masks, and practicing physical distancing.
When sick with a respiratory illness:
- Use precautions to reduce spread. Stay home and away from others.
- Seek health care right away for appropriate testing and treatment, especially if you have risk factors for severe illness; treatment may help lower your risk of severe illness.
For more prevention guidance, visit CDC Respiratory Virus Prevention.
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