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Illinois Health Alert: Flu Cases Rising as Winter 2026/27 Approaches
Springfield, IL – Illinois health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against flu…
By Cole Barrett · 2026-10-29T09:44:38.062Z
Springfield, IL – Illinois health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against flu, COVID 19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, as early signs of increasing flu activity emerge ahead of the winter respiratory illness season.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health IDPH , overall respiratory illness activity remains low statewide, but surveillance data indicate flu activity is beginning to increase.
Health officials warn that respiratory illnesses typically become more widespread during the fall and winter as people spend more time indoors, increasing opportunities for viruses to spread.
Illinois Officials Urge Immunizations Before the Holidays
"The message today is simple and clear: the time to get your seasonal immunizations is now," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said.
Vohra received his annual flu and COVID 19 immunizations Tuesday, October 27, during a visit to the Winnebago County Health Department in the Rockford area.
He emphasized that getting vaccinated now can help reduce the risk of serious illness during upcoming holiday gatherings.
Flu, COVID 19 and RSV Protection Available
IDPH says eligible residents can receive flu, COVID 19 and RSV immunizations during the same appointment, depending on individual recommendations.
The department issued updated fall respiratory virus immunization guidance in September, based on recommendations from the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee.
Officials noted that immunizations take time to become fully effective, making early protection particularly important.
What Illinois Residents Should Know
Beyond immunizations, IDPH recommends frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and staying home when experiencing illness.
Residents should also cover coughs and sneezes and consider wearing a mask around others when sick.
With Thanksgiving and winter holidays approaching, health officials encourage Illinois families to review their immunization status before seasonal respiratory illnesses become more prevalent.
Residents can monitor statewide illness trends through the IDPH Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard.