(SPRINGFIELD) While more than half of the counties in Illinois remain at an elevated level for COVID-19 hospitalizations, according to CDC data, the state’s overall respiratory illness level has dropped in recent weeks. The Illinois Department of Public Health say that while respiratory illness activity appears to have peaked and is now trending downward, it’s still very important to remember that the respiratory virus season can last well into the spring with additional increases in illness rates still possible. Go to dph.illinois.gov for more.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is urging statewide residents to take time in January to test their homes for radon during this Radon Action Month. It’s estimated that more than 1,100 people in Illinois develop radon-related lung cancer each year. Radon testing kits can be purchased at most hardware and department stores. It’s recommended to conduct one short-term & one long-term test to ensure consisten results.
(CHICAGO) A navigation software company recently released its annual “Traffic Index” for 2023, noting that Chicago is home to one of the worst commutes in the nation. TomTom’s latest review of 80 cities in America was based on average travel times, congestion issues, and the average speed during rush hours. While New York City ranked as the worst when it comes to traffic, Chicago was fifth worst, but at the top for congestion and rush hour speed. The nation’s easiest commute was found to be in Oklahoma City.