COVID-19 Weekend Update with Jeff: 12/18-12/20

By Jeffrey Softcheck, MBA and Sandra Folarin

Snapshot: While our test positivity is lower, ICU capacity is too low to withstand a surge. As vaccines are deployed, your safe actions this holiday season will prevent unnecessary deaths.

As of Saturday, December 19th, 96,851 new tests were logged including: 76,877 molecular tests (79%), 15,176 antigen (16%), and 4,798 UIUC molecular saliva testing (5%). There were 7,562 newly confirmed or probable cases for a daily case positivity rate of 7.81%. This marks 14 of the last 16 days with the case positivity rate In single digits and 5 of the last 6 days under 8%.

Thankfully there has not been a positivity rate increase since Thanksgiving, however there has been a steep increase in deaths across regions and in Northeast Illinois counties. There have also been many deaths in age groups under 80.

With that in mind, it’s important to remember that this virus doesn’t just affect the elderly, and that there are many younger people with known or unknown pre-existing conditions. Remember to make informed decisions around the holidays.

Thank you for doing your part and continue to make good choices. Stay safe. Stay vigilant. Stay masked.