U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention news
Policies and procedures have been implemented by the Illinois Veterans’ Home in La Salle “out of an abundance of caution,” following possible cases of an infectious disease, an Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs spokesperson said.
Lead pipes in public water systems and drinking fixtures have been banned in new construction since 1986, when Congress amended the Safe Drinking Water Act, but they are still in use across the U.S. and in Illinois.
In the U.S., about 35 percent of U.S. adults and 33 percent of children have been vaccinated against flu, current CDC data indicates. That's down compared to last year in both categories.
Back to school means back to the doctor for some, as three viral respiratory illnesses – influenza, RSV and COVID-19 – are again expected to dominate seasonal sickness trends this year, and area health officials say to expect an uptick in October.
Monday marked the return of free at-home COVID-19 tests from the federal government, a move that comes amid an uptick in patients hospitalized with the virus.
Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday endorsed the new shots for everyone 6 months of age and older. The agency’s director is expected to sign off on the panel’s recommendation. The vaccines could be available this week.
Illinois public health officials are warning residents of a multistate outbreak of salmonella and a flour recall linked to Gold Medal branded flour, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Two cases have been reported in Illinois.
U.S. cases of a dangerous fungus tripled over just three years, and more than half of states have now reported it
Disease investigators have linked the infections, including some found in blood, urine and lungs, to EzriCare Artificial Tears. Many of the patients said they had used the product, which is a lubricant used to treat irritation and dryness.
In October, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a national shortage of Adderall, noting one of the main manufacturers of the drug was experiencing delays and there was not sufficient supply to meet demand.
The nation’s top public health agency is relaxing its COVID-19 guidelines and dropping the recommendation that Americans quarantine themselves if they come into close contact with an infected person
The cause of a rare hepatitis in children is not yet identified. Contact your pediatrician if you notice any symptoms.
The CDC is offering a color-coded map — with counties designated as orange, yellow or green — to help guide local officials and residents. In green counties, local officials can drop any indoor masking rules. Most counties in northern Illinois are green on the CDC's map.
CDC data shows states with higher rates of fully vaccinated residents have significantly lower COVID-19 per capita mortality rates.
Illinois schools will soon follow federal quarantine and isolation guidance for pupils who test positive for COVID-19, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Friday, a week after the agency cautioned schools against the plan.