Local COVID-19 cases are on the rise

Gov. J.B. Pritzker didn't mince words this week when describing the rising tide of COVID-19 in Carbondale and Jackson County.

"It's worse than in Chicago," Pritzker said of Jackson County, which is one of 11 counties statewide that has triggered a warning level from the Illinois Department of Public Health. "Southern Illinois and Metro East are both seeing troubling trends. The data can tell you if you're winning or losing with the virus. Unfortunately, we are losing right now in Jackson County."

The governor appeared Tuesday morning on the SIU Carbondale campus to further stress the importance of wearing face coverings in public when social distancing isn't possible.

His visit came as Jackson County is experiencing a surge in positive tests - right when SIU and other local schools are making preparations for their fall semesters.

As of early Thursday, there have been 682 confirmed cases in the county, including 19 deaths.

Health officials say 137 active cases are currently being managed.

Bart Hagston, administrator for the Jackson County Health Department, said that 44 percent of the county's total number of positive cases have been identified in the last three weeks. Many have been in individuals in their teens and 20s.

"I am hopeful that we can chart another course," said Hagston, who also urged the use of masks. "Your actions hold the key."

Mayor Mike Henry also spoke and pointed to actions taken over the past weeks by city officials, including an order for all citizens to wear face coverings while in public spaces where social distancing is not possible.

Carbondale also has limited bars and entertainment venues to 25 percent occupancy.

"This is meant to force social distancing in these facilities," Henry said.

Also this week, the health department announced it has temporarily restricted issuance of temporary food permits.

Local vendors with annual licenses issued by the health department will not be directly impacted by this new decision.

The restriction will be removed by health officials once data regarding local COVID-19 transmission trends more favorably.

During a briefing in Springfield on Monday, Pritzker announced a new $5 million mask-wearing awareness campaign.

Since the pandemic began, Illinois has recorded more than 7,700 deaths.

A map and information of each county's status can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health website at dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.