Perry County remains on IDPH warning list

The Perry County Health Department has been notified of two additional confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases here to 304.

The newest diagnosed individuals involve a male under the 13 and a man in his 70s.

A summary of the 304 confirmed cases are: 51 active cases; 242 patients who have recovered and been released from isolation; and 11 deaths.

The Perry County Health Department is currently monitoring this situation along with the Illinois Department of Public Health, both local hospitals in Perry County and local emergency management authorities.

The Illinois Department of Public Health listed Perry County as in a "warning" situation for the week Aug. 16-22. That was because on three metrics, the county's COVID numbers were higher than the IDPH's recommended targets.

Those three metrics are: number of cases per 100,000. Perry County had 264 per 100,000 for the week of Aug. 16-22. Also, the county's positivity rate is 10.7% for that week; higher than the state's chosen level of 8% or lower.

The patients are in isolation and working with the Perry County Health Department. If you have any questions, contact the Perry County Health Department at (618) 357-5371.

If you experience symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice. Protect yourself and others by staying home as much as possible. Continue social distancing of 6 feet or more, avoid large groups or gatherings of people, wash your hands frequently, and use a cloth face coverings in community settings.

For any additional updates or educational information, please visit The Perry County Health Department's Facebook page.