CDC

Back to school means back to the doctor for some, as three viral respiratory illnesses – influenza, RSV and COVID-19 – are again expected to dominate seasonal sickness trends this year, and area health officials say to expect an uptick in October.

Monday marked the return of free at-home COVID-19 tests from the federal government, a move that comes amid an uptick in patients hospitalized with the virus.

Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday endorsed the new shots for everyone 6 months of age and older. The agency’s director is expected to sign off on the panel’s recommendation. The vaccines could be available this week.

Illinois public health officials are warning residents of a multistate outbreak of salmonella and a flour recall linked to Gold Medal branded flour, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Two cases have been reported in Illinois.

U.S. cases of a dangerous fungus tripled over just three years, and more than half of states have now reported it

Disease investigators have linked the infections, including some found in blood, urine and lungs, to EzriCare Artificial Tears. Many of the patients said they had used the product, which is a lubricant used to treat irritation and dryness.

In October, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a national shortage of Adderall, noting one of the main manufacturers of the drug was experiencing delays and there was not sufficient supply to meet demand.

The nation’s top public health agency is relaxing its COVID-19 guidelines and dropping the recommendation that Americans quarantine themselves if they come into close contact with an infected person

The cause of a rare hepatitis in children is not yet identified. Contact your pediatrician if you notice any symptoms.

CDC data shows states with higher rates of fully vaccinated residents have significantly lower COVID-19 per capita mortality rates.

Illinois schools will soon follow federal quarantine and isolation guidance for pupils who test positive for COVID-19, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Friday, a week after the agency cautioned schools against the plan.

Days after federal health officials announced changes to recommended guidance on COVID-19 isolation and quarantine, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Friday that guidance won’t apply to Illinois schools.

Valley Hi failed to separate roommates after one would test positive five different times. They paid a $16,250 fine for improperly following COVID-19 guidance for long-term care facilities

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has endorsed COVID-19 booster shots for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans

County health department officials said in the statement that the agency supports the CDC’s recently released guidance advising that individuals wear a mask in public, indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission regardless of vaccination status.