New Illinois Disaster Declaration and EO to Address Surge in Respiratory Illnesses

December 16, 2022

Due to the escalation of respiratory illnesses in Illinois, Governor Pritzker filed a new COVID-19 disaster proclamation last week that took effect December 8 and will last for 30 days. The proclamation declares all counties in Illinois as disaster areas and authorizes the exercise of all powers of the Illinois Emergency Management Agent Act. It will also assist Illinois agencies in coordinating state and federal resources, including the stockpile of medicines and protective equipment, and will support local governments in preparation for any action that may be necessary related to the potential impact of COVID-19 in Illinois. The governor also filed an executive order a day later on December 9.

Both executive documents were filed amidst the recent increase in respiratory illnesses.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported that the rise in respiratory illnesses following the Thanksgiving holiday was anticipated. IDPH Director Sameer Vohra, MD, stressed that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 should contact their healthcare professional immediately to discuss whether they will need treatment, including Paxlovid, Lagverio or Remdesivir.