As of 02/26/21 there have been 2366 confirmed cases and 411 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 4 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/26/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

On February 24th, 2021 at 4:24 PM, Corporal Wallace and Probationary Officer Pluimer initiated a traffic stop on a silver Cadillac on US 41 SB near CR 700 S for a moving violation. The vehicle failed to stop and increased its speed. The vehicle led police on an approximately 40 minute pursuit on US 41 and county roads into Jasper County. On Jasper County’s 1000W near SR 114, assisting agencies had stops sticks set up for deployment. The suspect driver surrendered prior to hitting the stop sticks. The driver (sole occupant) Willie P. Mance (35 year old male from Cook County, IL) was taken into custody and transported to the Newton County Jail. Mance is being held on probable cause for Resisting Law Enforcement, Reckless Driving, Possession of Marijuana, he also had a confirmed Department of Correction warrant. The final charges will be at the determination of the Newton County Prosecutor. Assisting agencies: Kentland Police Department, Morocco Police Department, Indiana State Police, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Rensselaer Police Department, Remington Police Department and Newton County DTF. 

– Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy, announces the ISP will conduct Distracted Driving Enforcement Program patrols in Kankakee, Iroquois, Ford Counties on March 17, 2021. This program allows ISP to focus on distracted driving laws to prevent traffic deaths and serious injury crashes. Distractions can increase a driver’s risk of being in an accident: • Eating or drinking (non-alcoholic beverages) increases the risk by three times. • Sending a text message increases the risk by four times. • Reaching for an object increases the risk by eight times. • Reading a text message can take a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of five seconds. Officers will be on the lookout for drivers who disobey Illinois’ distracted driving laws, especially the following: • All drivers are prohibited from reading, sending, or receiving text messages or communication, and from browsing the internet. • All drivers are prohibited from using handheld electronic communication devices. • Drivers under the age of 19 are prohibited from using any cellphone, even handsfree. • All drivers are prohibited from using any cellphone, even hands-free, while in school speed zones and work zones. • School bus drivers are not permitted to use any type of cellphone, even handsfree. • It is illegal to use a cellphone or take photos or videos on wireless devices when driving within 500 feet of an emergency scene. This distracted driving enforcement campaign is made possible by traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. 

As of 02/25/21 there have been 2363 confirmed cases and 410 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 2 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/24/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

There have been 2362 confirmed cases and 409 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 3 new cases since our last update. 2 additional individuals have passed away with COVID-19. We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by this loss.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/24/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

Katina M. Martell, 39, Villa Park, turned herself in to the Iroquois County Jail on Feb. 22. Martell was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant charging her with forgery. Martell posted the required bond and was released.

Jason R. Tooley, 35, Chicago, turned himself in to the Iroquois County Jail on Feb. 22. Tooley was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant charging him with domestic battery and criminal damage to property. Tooley posted the required bond and was released.

Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Antoniette Spina, 52, of Milford. According to police reports, Spina was charged with domestic battery after Sheriff's Police were dispatched to the 100 block of N. Fritz Dr. For a disturbance. Spina was then placed into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she posted the required bond and was released.

Tiffany Walker, 28, Watertown, Tenn. on Feb. 22. Walker was arrested after police conducted a traffic stop on Cherry St. near Fifth St. Walker was then charged with driving while license revoked and was transported to the Iroquois County Jail.

There have been 2359 confirmed cases and 409 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 4 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/22/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

WATSEKA, IL – The Iroquois County Public Health Department (ICPHD), in partnership with Iroquois
Memorial Hospital, will be hosting community-based COVID-19 vaccination clinics for qualifying Iroquois
County residents. We are currently scheduling for February 23, 2021 by appointment only.
These clinics will serve Iroquois County residents in phase 1B of the Illinois Mass Vaccination Plan, including
anyone 65 years of age or older. At this time, there is no cost for the COVID-19 vaccine. Written documentation
from the individual’s primary care physician will not be required. Please reference the chart at the bottom of the
linked webpage for eligible populations in each phase of the Illinois Mass Vaccination Plan:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccination-plan.
Please note that this vaccine is available by appointment only to practice safe social distancing. Individuals
who arrive without a previously scheduled appointment will not be eligible to receive the vaccine at that
time. Appointments are reserved for qualifying individuals who reside within Iroquois County.
To register and schedule your appointment, please call ICPHD at (815) 432-2483. Please refrain from contacting
your healthcare provider or ICPHD to be placed on a wait list, as we are not keeping a registry of people who
want the vaccine.
The vaccination clinic will be held at Iroquois Memorial Hospital. Clients will be asked to enter through the main
entrance located on the north side of the building and are required to bring a valid form of photo ID.
Individuals who are wheelchair bound or in need of additional assistance may enter through the Emergency Room
entrance on the south side of the building. If you do not feel well the day of your appointment or are in isolation
or quarantine, please call ICPHD to reschedule.
Patients will need to wear a face covering, practice social distancing, and plan to allow at least 15 minutes for
observation after the vaccination. Please wear clothing to allow easy access to the upper portion of the arm for the
injection.
Supply of this vaccine is limited and appointments are expected to be filled quickly. ICPHD is expecting to
receive weekly or bi-weekly allocations of the COVID-19 vaccine from the State of Illinois. If you are unable to
schedule an appointment for this community-based clinic, please watch for future notification of upcoming clinics
as more vaccine becomes available.
As more vaccine is allocated ICPHD will communicate availability, along with when, where, and how to receive
the vaccine, via traditional and social media outlets as well as on the ICPHD website:
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/health-department/covid-19-corona-virus/.
The Illinois Department of Public Health has compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about
the COVID-19 vaccination. Information can be found at: http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccine-faq. For
individual concerns regarding allergies or other medical conditions please consult your own medial provider. 

There have been 2356 confirmed cases and 408 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 3 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/18/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

As of 02/18/21 there have been 2353 confirmed cases and 408 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There have been a total of 4 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/18/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.

As of 02/17/21 there have been 2,351 confirmed cases and 406 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 16 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/17/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

"The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician's office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed."

With multiple recent crashes involving Illinois State Police (ISP) Troopers, Governor JB Pritzker and ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly implores motorists to respect the Move Over Law and use caution when approaching emergency vehicles on interstates and roads.

In the past three days, six ISP squad cars have been struck due to motorists disobeying the Move Over Law (also known as Scott’s Law), bringing the year-to-date total to 10 in 2021. Three of these recent incidents resulted in injuries, including one serious injury. These incidents occurred across the state in ISP District(s) 2, 5, 13, 16 and Chicago.

“Scott’s Law is critical to keeping our first responders safe as they heroically serve us on our roadways,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Especially now, as we continue to experience extreme winter weather, it is imperative that drivers slow down and move over as they approach a vehicle with their hazard lights on. I’m praying for our Illinois State Police troopers who have been injured in the line of duty in recent days and imploring all Illinoisans to drive safely and follow the law.”

“We are only six weeks into the new year and we’ve already had ten squad cars struck because people do not obey the law,” said ISP Director Brendan Kelly. “But this about more than just obeying the law- it’s about basic decency and respect for the very lives of the brave souls on our streets simply trying to help the public.”

Governor JB Pritzker has been heavily involved in the effort to bring awareness to the Move Over (Scott’s) Law and signed two pieces of legislation in 2019 as a part of his ongoing effort. Public Act 101-173 increased the fines for those violating this law. A person who violates Scott’s Law, commits a business offense and faces a fine of no less than $250 or more than $10,000 for a first offense. If the violation results in injury to another person, the violator’s driver’s license will be suspended for a mandatory period of anywhere between six months and two years.

Additionally, a Move Over Task Force, implemented through Public Act 101-174, was created to study the issues of violations of the Move Over (Scott’s) Law and how to protect emergency responders. Both Senate bills were effective Jan. 1, 2020. 

As chair of the Move Over Task Force, ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly continues to make the Move Over Law a top priority. “As an agency, we have responded to the preventable loss of four ISP Troopers in 2019 with resiliency and a focused mission to protect those who are trying to protect all of us. As long as the danger to our first responders exists, and the danger is obviously apparent, we will continue to raise awareness and aggressively enforce the Move Over (Scott’s) Law,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly.

In the inclement weather that we are experiencing throughout the state, motorists are encouraged to stay home. If travel cannot be avoided or delayed, drivers should allow plenty of time for travel, avoid tailgating, reduce speed, pay attention to the road and slow down and move over for emergency vehicles. Following winter driving tips will help reduce accidents and injuries, but staying home, if possible, is the safest choice right now.

The Move Over Law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights, and any stationary vehicle with their hazard lights activated.  The law also states, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe, drivers are required to proceed with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle and leave a safe distance until safely passing the stationary vehicle. Move Over and Slow Down. Help us help you.

A link to the ISP Move Over map is included here: https://isp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=8fbb1df8739049029a01443f844d1934

As of 02/11/21 there have been 2,339 confirmed cases and 402 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 13 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/11/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

SPRINGFIELD – The number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination locations across Illinois continues to increase.  Since yesterday, more than 340 new retail pharmacy locations have been added to the list of COVID-19 vaccination sites open to the public.  There are now more than 850 vaccination locations in Illinois open to the public.  The new sites include 339 Walgreens stores throughout Illinois, which will be receiving vaccine out of a federal allocation and not from the state’s allotment.  Additionally, four CVS locations are being added.
 
Retail Pharmacies
The State of Illinois is partnering with CVS, Hy-Vee, Jewel-Osco, Kroger, Mariano’s, Meijer, Walgreens, and Walmart pharmacies to provide COVID-19 vaccinations.

• CVS – 4 locations
• Hy-Vee – 16 locations
• Jewel-Osco – 143 locations
• Kroger – 24 locations
• Mariano’s – 31 locations
• Meijer – 8 locations
• Walgreens – 520 locations
• Walmart – 8 locations

While we are working to increase the number of vaccines administered daily, we are limited by the amount of vaccine available and allocated by the federal government.  Vaccinations are available only by appointment at this time and we encourage people to check back frequently for open appointments.  Until the supply is increased, there will be a great demand and we ask people to be patient.  Individuals should be signing up for an appointment to receive their second dose while they are getting their first vaccination.

For information on how to make an appointment to receive the vaccine, updates on the state’s plan and eligibility, and answers to frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, go to coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Michael P. Wisniewski, 27, Sheldon turned himself in to the Iroquois County Jail on Feb. 5 to begin serving a sentence for driving while license suspended.

Eugene Westbrook, 24, Sheldon, turned himself in to the Iroquois County Jail on Feb. 9 to serve a sentence for criminal damage to government property and aggravated fleeing/eluding.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Mickey D. Loniello Jr., 44, Woodland on Feb. 2. According to police reports, Loniello Jr. was charged with illegal transportation of alcohol by a passenger, possession of of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and bringing a controlled substance into a penal institution. Loniello Jr. was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he later posted the required bond.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Mickey D. Loniello III, 20, Woodland on Feb. 2. According to police reports, Loniello III was charged with driving while license suspended and speeding 74mph in a 55mph zone. Loniello III was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Brenden N. Noel, 28, Danforth on Feb. 4. According to police reports, Noel was charged with failure to report annually as a registered sex offender and also wanted on an outstanding DOC warrant. Noel was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in custody.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Jorge Casillas, 51, Hoopeston on Feb. 7. According to police reports, Casillas was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for failure to appear on an aggravated fleeing/eluding charge. Casillas was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in custody.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police investigated a single vehicle accident on Co. Rd. 1850 N. Approx. 1/8 of a mile west of Co. Rd. 2280 E. A vehicle driven by Madisyn J. Allensworth, 21, Watseka, was traveling east on 1850 N. Due to the snowy/icy conditions, the driver began to Lise control and slid, entering the south ditch. The vehicle struck the embankment as well as a mailbox causing over. $1500 in damage. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that all offices and facilities will be closed Friday, Feb. 12 in observance of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. In addition, facilities that operate on a Monday through Friday schedule will be closed on Monday, Feb. 15 while facilities open Tuesday to Saturday schedule will be closed Saturday, Feb. 13, in observance of Presidents Day. Also, Chicago North, 5401 N. Elston Ave. and Chicago South, 9901 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. are closed on Monday. All Driver Services facilities will be open for business Tuesday, Feb. 16. (Note: The Chicago West facility, 5301 W. Lexington Ave., will remain closed due to the city’s sewer repair work, which has closed Lexington Ave. around the facility. In addition, the James R. Thompson Center and Chicago Loop Express, 69 W. Washington St., Driver Services facilities will remain closed because they are located in public buildings that are not open). Individuals can visit the Secretary of State’s website, www.cyberdriveillinois.com, to locate the nearest Driver Services facility and the hours of operation. As a reminder, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White has extended all expiration dates to June 1, 2021, for driver’s licenses/ID cards. White encourages people to conduct business online at www.cyberdriveillinois.com for services such as renewing license plate stickers, obtaining replacement driver’s licenses/ID cards and renewing driver’s licenses.

As of 02/10/21 there have been 2,327 confirmed cases and 401 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 3 new cases since our last update.

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

SPRINGFIELD – The number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination locations across Illinois continues to increase.  Since February 4, 2021, 134 new locations have been added to the list of COVID-19 vaccination sites open to the public for a current total of 517 locations.  The new sites include 22 local health department, medical center, and hospital locations, two new mass vaccination locations supported by the local health department and Illinois National Guard, and 110 additional retail pharmacy stores.
 
Local Health Departments, Hospitals, Medical Centers

• Carle Foundation Hospital – Champaign
• Clark County Health Department - Martinsville
• Crawford County Health Department – Robinson
• Elmhurst Hospital – Downers Grove
• Franklin Williamson Bi-County Health Department – West Frankfort
• Gibson Area Hospital – Gibson City
• HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital – O’Fallon
• Iroquois Memorial Hospital – Watseka
• Jo Daviess County Health Department – (2 locations Elizabeth and Galena)
• Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital and Center for Health Services – (3 locations Polo, Oregon, Dixon)
• Lee County Health Department – Dixon
• Madison County Health Department – Wood River
• Massac Memorial Hospital – Metropolis
• McDonough District Hospital Health Services – Macomb
• Riverside Medical Center – Kankakee (2 locations)
• Schuyler County Health Department – Rushville
• Swedish Hospital – Chicago
• University of Illinois Health – Chicago

Mass Vaccination Sites

• South Suburban College – 15800 State St., South Holland
• Thornton Fractional High School – 18500 Burnham Ave., Lansing

Retail Pharmacies

The State of Illinois is partnering with Hy-Vee, Jewel-Osco, Kroger, Mariano’s, Meijer, Walgreens, and Walmart pharmacies to provide COVID-19 vaccinations.

• Hy-Vee – 16 locations
• Jewel-Osco – 143 locations
• Kroger – 24 locations
• Mariano’s – 31 locations
• Meijer – 8 locations
• Walgreens – 181 locations
• Walmart – 8 locations

The current phase of vaccination, Phase 1B, includes approximately 3.2 million people in Illinois.  While we are working to increase the number of vaccines administered daily, we are limited by the amount of vaccine available and allocated by the federal government.  Vaccinations are available only by appointment at this time and we encourage people to check back frequently for open appointments.  Until the supply is increased, there will be a great demand and we ask people to be patient.  Individuals should be signing up for an appointment to receive their second dose while they are getting their first vaccination.

For information on how to make an appointment to receive the vaccine, updates on the state’s plan and eligibility, and answers to frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, go to coronavirus.illinois.gov.

On Sunday, February 7, 2021, the Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (KAMEG), arrested Russell W. Cookson, 37 year old male of Bourbonnais, Illinois, for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine) and for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine).

On Sunday, February 7, 2021, KAMEG Agents arrested Cookson in the parking lot outside of his Bourbonnais residence.  During a search incident to an arrest, agents seized approximately 15.2 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Cookson was transported to the Kankakee County Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

KAMEG reminds the public to call KAMEG at (815) 933-1710 to report non-emergency information about drug dealing and gang problems. We recognize our partnership with the public is important for quality of life issues for citizens and children.

As of 02/08/21 there have been 2,321 confirmed cases and 398 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 10 new cases since our last update.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/08/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 1,747 new confirmed and probable cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 35 additional deaths.

- Boone County: 1 male 90s
- Cook County: 1 male 40s, 1 female 50s, 2 males 50s, 3 males 60s, 1 female 70s, 2 males 70s, 1 female 80s, 3 males 80s, 4 males 90s
- DuPage County: 1 female 60s, 1 male 80s, 1 female 100+
- Hardin County: 1 female 90s
- Kane County: 1 male 60s, 1 female 90s
- Kendall County: 1 male 30s
- Knox County: 1 male 60s
- Lake County: 1 male 70s
- Montgomery County: 1 male 40s
- Morgan County: 1 male 80s
- Peoria County: 1 male 80s
- Richland County: 1 female 60s
- Washington County: 1 male 90s
- Whiteside County: 1 male 90s
- Winnebago County: 1 male 70s

Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 1,148,088 cases, including 19,668 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 47,210 specimens for a total of 16,683,795.  As of last night, 2,161 individuals in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 469 patients were in the ICU and 251 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from February 1–7, 2021 is 3.3%.  The preliminary seven-day statewide test positivity from February 1–7, 2021 is 4.1%.

A total of 1,638,125 doses of vaccine have been delivered to providers in Illinois, including Chicago.  In addition, approximately 496,100 doses total have been allocated to the federal government’s Pharmacy Partnership Program for long-term care facilities.  This brings the total Illinois doses to 2,134,225.  A total of 1,358,967 vaccines have been administered in Illinois as of last midnight, including 212,256 for long-term care facilities.  The 7-day rolling average of vaccines administered daily is 51,794 doses.  Yesterday, 16,110 doses were administered.

*All data are provisional and will change. In order to rapidly report COVID-19 information to the public, data are being reported in real-time. Information is constantly being entered into an electronic system and the number of cases and deaths can change as additional information is gathered.  Information for deaths previously reported has changed, therefore, today’s numbers have been adjusted.  For health questions about COVID-19, call the hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email dph.sick@illinois.gov.

Springfield, Ill- National Burn Awareness Week, is an initiative of the American Burn Association and is a coming together of burn, fire and life safety educators to make the public aware of the frequency, devastation and causes of burn injury. The week introduces consistent and authoritative measures to prevent these injuries and how to best care for those that are injured.

The theme for National Burn Awareness Week 2021, “Electrical Safety from Amps to Zap!”, highlights a common risk of injury that exists from unprotected electrical outlets, improperly used extension cords, lightning, and workplace electrical injuries. Annually, in the United States, approximately 400,000 people receive medical care for treatment of burn injuries. In 2018 alone, there were 3,655 deaths from fire and smoke inhalation and another 40,000 people were treated in hospitals for burn related injuries.

“It’s important to do a risk assessment around your home and cover all electrical outlets reducing the risk of accidental electrocution. Create a three-foot kid-free zone around your stove or oven when cooking, turn pot/pan handles around when cooking, use rear burners if possible, place hot liquids in the middle of a table and out of the reach of children and make sure to wear shoes when walking on pavement during hot summer months. Taking a few simple steps can help to reduce the risk for injury or burn injuries from occurring, along with the physical and mental scares the come from those burn injuries,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Matt Perez.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), most “fire-related injuries” are burns. In fact, approximately every 60 seconds someone in the U.S. sustains a burn injury serious enough to require treatment. The primary causes of injury include fire-flame, scalds, contact with hot objects, electrical and chemicals. Most of the injuries occur in the home. Today, 96.8% of those who suffer burn injuries will survive. Unfortunately, many of those survivors will sustain serious scarring, life-long physical disabilities, and adjustment difficulties.

“The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance is excited to announce the launch of its newest program to assist burn survivors across the state – the Virtual Burn Survivor Support Program. The online program will be made available monthly and will be provided to both younger and older burn survivors, as well as caregivers. Each session will have a different topic or activity which revolves around burn injuries, whether it be physical or emotional healing. The program will create a safe and accepting environment for everyone participating while providing a comfortable setting for participants to feel comfortable in sharing their burn and recovery related experiences,” said Executive Director Philip Zaleski.

To learn more about this program visit: www.IFSA.org

As of 02/05/21 there have been 2,313 confirmed cases and 397 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 7 new cases since our last update.

Due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, ICPHD will not be reporting case age and gender until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we need to focus all our time on contact tracing and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/05/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

As of 02/04/21 there have been 2,307 confirmed cases and 396 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 6 new cases since our last update.

Due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, ICPHD will not be reporting case age and gender until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we need to focus all our time on contact tracing and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/04/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

KENTLAND CRASH-

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (February 4, 2021 10:50 am)

ONE FLOWN TO BURN CENTER

On Wednesday, February 3, 2021 10:38am the Newton County 9-1-1 center received multiple reports of a two vehicle crash on US 41 at CR 1700S (1 mile south of Kentland) with one vehicle on fire.

The preliminary investigation by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office indicates a 2003 Audi passenger car, driven by a 19 year old Goodland man,  was disabled (unknown reason) in the passing lane of US 41.  The Audi was struck from the rear by a northbound Ford pickup truck, driven by a 50 year old Fowler, IN woman.

The crash resulted in an immediate fire.  The driver of the Ford along with good Samaritans pulled the 19 year old from the fire.  He was flown by helicopter to an Indianapolis burn center.  His status is unknown at this time.

The names of the drivers are not being released at this time as this is an active investigation.

Northbound US 41 was closed for about an hour until one lane could be opened.

Anyone that witnessed the crash is encouraged to contact Sgt. Wilson 219-474-6081 ext 3110.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Newton County 9-1-1 center, Newton County EMS, Kentland Fire, Benton County EMS, Indiana State Police and STAT FLIGHT.

**UPDATE**

2-9-21 8:20am

Driver’s identified.

The driver of the stalled vehicle has been identified to be Nolan Ganz, 19 of Goodland, IN.  The Marion County Coroner’s office advised Ganz has died of his injuries.

The driver of the pickup was Kristie Johnson, 50, of Fowler, Indiana.

The case remains an active investigation.

As of 02/03/21 there have been 2,303 confirmed cases and 394 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 7 new cases since our last update.

Due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, ICPHD will not be reporting case age and gender until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we need to focus all our time on contact tracing and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/03/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

If you have any questions or concerns please let me know, I would be happy to help.

DesPlaines, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Internal Investigation (DII) conducted an investigation which led to the arrest of Bryan Laughlin, an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Operations Supervisor at the Oakbrook Maintenance Yard, located in Villa Park, IL.  Laughlin, a 39 year-old of Downers Grove, IL, has been charged with five counts of Forgery (Class 3 Felony) and five counts of Wire Fraud (Class 3 Felony).

On May 8, 2020, the ISP DII, was requested by the IDOT, Bureau of Investigations Compliance (BIC) office to investigate allegations of Theft by Deception and Forgery against Laughlin. It was alleged Laughlin submitted fraudulent doctor’s notes excusing him from work.

On Jan. 28, 2021, as a result of a thorough investigation, ISP DII investigators appeared before a DuPage County Courthouse Grand Jury which issued a True Bill of Indictment for five counts of Forgery (Class 3 Felony) and five counts of Wire Fraud (Class 3 Felony).  On Jan. 29, 2021, an arrest warrant was issued by the honorable Judge Daniel P. Guerin for $10,000, 10% to apply.  On Feb. 1, 2021, Laughlin turned himself in to the custody of the Oakbrook Terrace Police Department and was later released on bond.  No further information is available for release by the ISP.

“The men and women of the Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigation will always strive to thoroughly investigate all allegations of misconduct within the Executive Branch of State Government,” stated Captain Darryl Bogard. “Upholding the best interest and confidence of those we serve are at the core and an integral part of our mission. The thorough investigative work performed by these officers assist in this mission,” he concluded.

Illinois Department of Human Services deploying teams to help vaccinate long-term care residents and staff as quickly as possible

SPRINGFIELD – In order to increase the limited supply of vaccine to eligible recipients, the State of Illinois is working with Walgreens and CVS pharmacies to temporarily redirect approximately 97,000 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine doses that have not yet been used for the federal Pharmacy Partnership Program to providers across the state.

After this transfer, approximately 110,000 doses will still remain available for the federal effort to vaccinate long term care residents; the federal program is administering approximately 36,000 doses per week. IDPH will continue to closely monitor the program and additional doses will be directed to the program if needed or if the rate of vaccination accelerates.

Doses were intentionally allocated to the federal PPP to ensure the program would have more than enough doses to fully vaccinate all long-term care facilities. Allocations to the federal PPP were based on total number of beds in each facility and assumed full participation by residents and staff in the vaccine program. As the pharmacy partners work down the current surplus, the State will closely monitor their progress and direct additional vaccine to the program as needed.

The doses will be used to supplement the limited supply of vaccine for the more than 3.2 million Illinoisans who qualify for Phase 1B of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.

Long-term care facilities remain a top priority in the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan. To supplement the federal PPP, the Illinois Department of Human Services is sending at least eight teams of nurses, volunteers and support staff to assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities for people with developmental disabilities and group homes. Teams are expected to be deployed and in facilities this week. Facilities that are in the final stages of the federal program have been offered the opportunity to have a state team visit their site in place of the federal teams.

“We want to make sure every dose allocated to Illinois can be used as quickly and equitably as possible,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “Long-term care residents and staff remain a top priority and we will ensure there will be as many doses readily available to those facilities as the PPP can administer each week. The State is grateful for its partnerships with hundreds of providers and we are directing excess doses that otherwise would be sitting in the freezer three weeks from now to locations across Illinois to vaccinate our Phase 1B residents.”

The federal PPP includes Walgreens and CVS pharmacies and is responsible for scheduling and administering COVID-19 vaccinations to long-term care residents and staff. The state is working closely with our partners to vaccinate our long-term care residents and staff as quickly as possible. Of the 97,000 doses being reallocated, 80,000 doses from the CVS portion of the PPP and

approximately 17,000 doses from the Walgreens portion are being directed to their respective retail stores.

For information on how to make an appointment to receive the vaccine, updates on the state’s plan and eligibility, and answers to frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, go to coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Revisions Impacting, FPUC, PUA, PUA Overpayments, PEUC, MEUC

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) today announced programmatic updates and changes to several unemployment programs contained within the Continued Assistance Act (CAA), signed into law on December 27, 2020, and the progress the Department is making in implementing the wide-ranging changes to these programs. These updates and changes, outlined below, will impact the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, PUA overpayments waivers, and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program, in addition to the creation of the Mixed-Earner Unemployment Compensation (MEUC) program.
Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC): The CAA provides an additional $300 per week in supplemental benefits to claimants who receive at least $1 of regular or federal unemployment benefits per week. This additional supplemental benefit applies between the week ending January 2, 2021 and the week ending March 13, 2021. IDES began paying the $300 FPUC benefit for all programs beginning January 4, 2021.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
o  Continued Claimants: IDES is instructing all PUA claimants who applied and were approved for PUA benefits prior to the week ending December 26, 2020, and had not exhausted benefit eligibility, to continue to certify to avoid an interruption in benefit payment. The PUA system is undergoing technical updates and testing to add the new 11 weeks of eligibility authorized under the CAA.

The CAA requires PUA claimants to verify employment or self-employment. During the week of February 1, 2021, notices will be sent to inform claimants of the additional 11 weeks of eligibility, in addition to requests to verify employment or self-employment. The notification will include a deadline to provide information to the Department, along with what information may be submitted to meet the employment or self-employment verification requirement.

o  Claimants Who Had Exhausted PUA Benefits: PUA claimants who had exhausted benefit eligibility prior to the week ending December 26, 2020 may remain eligible under the extension provided in the CAA and will be notified by IDES of the additional weeks added to their claim based on the method the claimant selected to receive correspondence from the Department.

The CAA requires PUA claimants to verify employment or self-employment. During the week of February 1, 2021, notices will be sent to inform claimants of the additional 11 weeks of eligibility in addition to requests to verify employment or self-employment. The notification will include a deadline to provide information to the Department, along with what information may be submitted to meet the employment or self-employment verification requirement.

o  New Claimants: The PUA system is undergoing technical changes to move new PUA claimants to pay status and begin the process of verifying wage and employment or self-employment information supplied by the claimant. The CAA also includes a limitation on backdating new PUA claims. Per the CAA, in most cases claimants filing a new PUA claim after December 27, 2020 can backdate to December 6, 2020.

o  Documentation Requirements: The CAA includes a new requirement for individuals to submit documentation verifying their prior employment or self-employment. Individuals filing a new PUA claim on or after January 31, 2021 (regardless whether the claim is backdated), are required to provide this documentation within 21 days of application or the date determined by IDES. Individuals who applied for PUA before January 31, 2021 and receive(d) a payment of PUA on or after December 27, 2020, are required to provide employment or self-employment documentation, or documentation demonstrating the beginning of employment or self-employment, within 90 days of application or the date determined by IDES. These deadlines may be extended if the individual shows good cause, and deadlines will be communicated on verification requests provided by the Department.

Documentation can include, but is not limited to, paycheck stubs, earnings and leave statements showing the employer’s name and address, W-2 forms when applicable, state or federal employer identification numbers, business licenses, tax returns, business receipts, signed affidavits from persons verifying the individual’s self-employment, letters offering employment, statements or affidavits by individuals verifying an offer of employment, written business plans, or a lease agreement.

o  Overpayment Waivers: IDES has reached out to the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) for additional direction on the process of addressing waivers on a case-by-case basis, as required by federal guidance. The Department is in the process of identifying which PUA overpayments are subject to waiver, creating a notice and questionnaire for PUA claimants with an overpayment to request a waiver and supply the information needed to make determinations, and drafting determination notices regarding waivers.

This is a new process provided for in the CAA. The Department is aware this population is seeking quick resolution on any request made to waive an overpayment, and has a set goal of moving through this process in a manner that provides clarity for claimants and allows the Department to efficiently review requests for waiver, while following the federal requirement that each case be reviewed on an individual basis.
Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC): The CAA provides an additional 11 weeks of PEUC benefits. However, claimant transition to PEUC will vary based on how and when claimants exhaust eligibility for benefits within the various regular and federal unemployment programs. Transition will be evaluated and determined on a claimant-by-claimant basis, and claimants will be notified of their transitions.
Transition Language Between Programs or with a New Benefit Year: The Department’s subject-matter experts are working through the transition language necessary to maintain eligibility for claimants who may exhaust various programs. This involves programming and testing changes within all programs.
Extended Benefits (EB): According to unemployment rate data published by the federal government, the Illinois unemployment rate has fallen below the threshold established by law for the additional 7 weeks of EB to be available in Illinois. Illinois remains triggered onto the standard 13 weeks of EB, and is available to claimants who have exhausted the allotted 26 weeks of regular state unemployment benefits, the 13 weeks of Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits, and (in some cases) the additional 11 weeks of PEUC benefits established under the CAA. Claimants who received 13 or more weeks of EB will transition to the maximum 11 additional weeks of PEUC.
Mixed-Earning Unemployment Compensation (MEUC): States have prioritized managing through CAA changes related to existing programs but intend to move quickly to build the program necessary to implement MEUC. The Department will partner with stakeholders to publicize the program, including eligibility requirements.

The Illinois Sheriffs' Association announces that it will be awarding $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2021-2022 academic year. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only. The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within the State of Illinois, full-time online learning is acceptable.

Sheriff Derek W.M. Hagen, Iroquois County, will be awarding one (I) scholarship in the amount of $500.

There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin. The only limitations are as follows:

• Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents

• Scholarships must be utilized at institutions of higher learning within the State of Illinois

• Students must be enrolled as a full_time student during the 2021-2022 school year (excluding summer session.)

Applications are now available at the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office or on the internet @ https://www.ilsheriff.org/youth-2/ Students must complete the application; answer the essay question and return all documentation to the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office, 550 S. 10th Street, Watseka, Illinois 60970 by March 15th, 2021 (Must be postmarked by this date).

Ashkum, IL. – Illinois State Police District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy,
announced today activity and enforcement figures for January 2021

Illinois State Police District 21 Troopers issued 468 citations, 768 written warnings,
including 21 DUIs, 10 seatbelt citations, and 27 criminal arrests. District 21 Troopers made a total
of 717 Traffic stops in January. Troopers also assisted 214 motorists, conducted 134 Motor
Carrier Inspections, and investigated 83 traffic crashes. There was one fatal crash investigated
by District 21 in January.

According to the National Safety Council the major contributing factors to motor-vehicle
deaths in the United States are lack of occupant protection, alcohol, speeding, young drivers,
distractions, and large trucks.

In an effort to reduce fatalities, the Illinois State Police uses enforcement activities and
educational programs to fight these major contributing factors.

WATSEKA, IL – The Iroquois County Public Health Department (ICPHD), in partnership with Iroquois
Memorial Hospital, will be hosting community-based COVID-19 vaccination clinics for qualifying
Iroquois County residents.

At this time, all appointments for the COVID-19 vaccination clinic on February 4
th, 2021 have been filled. We will notify the public when more vaccine is available.

For those who have an appointment, the vaccination clinic will be held at Iroquois Memorial Hospital.
Clients will be asked to enter through the main entrance located on the north side of the building and are
required to bring a valid form of photo ID. Individuals who are wheelchair bound or in need of
additional assistance may enter through the Emergency Room entrance on the south side of the building.
If you do not feel well the day of your appointment or are in isolation or quarantine, please call ICPHD
to reschedule.
Patients will need to wear a face covering, practice social distancing, and plan to allow at least 15
minutes for observation after the vaccination. Please wear clothing to allow easy access to the upper
portion of the arm for the injection.
ICPHD is expecting to receive weekly or bi-weekly allocations of the COVID-19 vaccine from the State
of Illinois. If you were unable to schedule an appointment for this community-based clinic, please
watch for future notification of upcoming clinics as more vaccine becomes available.
As more vaccine is allocated ICPHD will communicate availability, along with when, where, and how to
receive the vaccine, via traditional and social media outlets as well as on the ICPHD website:
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/health-department/covid-19-corona-virus/.
The Illinois Department of Public Health has compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked
questions about the COVID-19 vaccination. Information can be found at:
http://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccine-faq. For individual concerns regarding allergies or other medical
conditions please consult your own medial provider. 

East Peoria, IL - The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Zone 4
was requested by the East Peoria Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting
involving an East Peoria Police Officer. The incident occurred on February 2, 2021, at
approximately 1:00 a.m. in the parking lot of CVS at the corner of Farmdale Road and Washington
Street in East Peoria, Illinois.

Initial information indicates that the East Peoria Police Department was responding to a domestic
violence situation. Upon arrival, officers were advised the suspect had left the scene. An East
Peoria Police officer located the suspect vehicle in the CVS parking lot and was stabbed multiple
times by the suspect. The officer shot the suspect and responding officers provided medical care
to the suspect. The officer was transported to an area hospital where he remains in stable condition.
The suspect was pronounced deceased on scene. No other officers were injured during the
incident.

One adult female victim and one juvenile female victim were transported to an area hospital and
are recovering from injuries sustained in the initial domestic incident.
The incident is being investigated by ISP Zone 4 Investigations with assistance from ISP Crime
Scene Services Command. This incident is an active and ongoing investigation, and no additional
information will be released at this time.

On January 26^th, 20211 Iroquois County Sheriffs Police investigated a single vehicle accident on County Rd 200 E near $170 N Rd, According to police reports, a blue 1995 Chevrolet 2500 pickup was traveling southbound on 200 E when it left the roadway near 3170 N, The vehicle entered the west ditch going sideways and then came to a rest on its top. NO occupants were found on scene and the accident is still under investigation.

On January 29^th, 2021, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Amber L. Kunsch, age 32, of Stockland. According to police reports, Kunsch was charged with residential burglary and theft under $500. Kunsch was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she posted the required bond.

On January 30^th, 2021, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police investigated a single vehicle accident on County Rd 200 E approx. an 1/8 of a mile south of County Rd 2000 N. According to police reports, a vehicle driven by Corey R. Marino, age 33, of Piper City was traveling south on 200 E. Due to the snow/ice covered roadway, the vehicle lost control and entered the west ditch and proceed south into a large drainage ditch. The vehicle sustained over $1500 in damage. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued

As of 02/01/21 there have been 2,293 confirmed cases and 392 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 7 new cases since our last update.

Due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, ICPHD will not be reporting case age and gender until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we need to focus all our time on contact tracing and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 02/01/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”

On January 26^th, 2021, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police investigated a single vehicle accident at the intersection of Co. Rd. 2800 E, and 2700 N- According to police reports, a vehicle driven by Tyrone Leftridge, age 21, of Bourbonnais was traveling east on 2700 N. when an animal entered the roadway. Leftridge maneuvered to avoid the animati causing him to lose control of his vehicle on the ice covered roadway. Leftrldge entered the ditch and struck a utility pole. No injuries were reported, and no citations were issued.

On January 25^th, 2021, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police investigated a single vehicle accident at the intersection of Co. Rd. 1800 N and co. Rd. 100 E. According to police reports, a vehicle driven by Antoinette Bassett, age 55, Of Piper City was traveling west on 1800 N. Bassett lost control at the intersection and entered the west ditch, Bassett was transported to Iroquois Memorial Hospital for minor injuries, Bassett was ticketed for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

On January 27^th, 2021, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Ethan Kropp, age 27, of Garner, Iowa. According to police reports, Kropp was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with failure to appear for driving under the influence of alcohol. Kropp was aware ot his warrant and turned himself into the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released-

As of 01/29/21 there have been 2,287 confirmed cases and 391 probable cases of COVID-19 in Iroquois County.  There has been a total of 5 new cases since our last update.

Due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, ICPHD will not be reporting case age and gender until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we need to focus all our time on contact tracing and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Please find the attached Iroquois County COVID-19 update for 01/29/21. Please reference the following explanation of probable cases:

“The probable cases that we will be reporting on the daily press release are individuals who have been tested and are found to have a positive test result by a local clinic using "rapid" tests that are not, at this time, IDPH approved tests. These are antigen tests, not molecular tests, and are not laboratory confirmed. Therefore, those individuals who test positive using rapid testing from this source, will be reported as a probable case. Please note that there are different rapid tests available from different sources. Some rapid tests are IDPH approved while some are not. If individuals chose to be tested at a clinic or physician’s office that is using a test that is not IDPH approved and the results are positive, that individual will be listed as a probable case and will be required to isolate per health department protocol. Their direct, known and identified contacts will be quarantined. We realize that there are numerous definitions of Probable Cases but ICPHD will use the Probable Cases category to identify the individuals who have tested positive using a rapid test, not yet approved by IDPH, as these positive results are not laboratory confirmed.”