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CHICAGO – Mixed messages about COVID continue to abound throughout Illinois and the federal government.
On one hand, the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association is happy that COVID-19 testing requirements for international travelers are supposedly being lifted by the federal government Friday.
Michael Jacobson, President and CEO of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association applauded the move today.
“The pre-arrival testing requirement for inbound international travelers was one of the last remaining government COVID-19 mandates, and the United States was one of the only countries that had not lifted this requirement," Jacobson said.
"We are thrilled this mandate has finally been lifted and that we are able to take this major step toward fully rebuilding the hotel and tourism industry both in Illinois and throughout the country. The travel industry looks forward to welcoming international travelers to Illinois with open arms once again."
At the same time, the Illinois Department of Public Health heightened its warning for Illinoisans to wear masks indoors as COVID cases are rising again, the office said today. The uptick is a "cause for concern."
“In the days since the Memorial Day weekend we have seen a ten percent increase in COVID-19 across Illinois, reversing the downward trend of the previous two weeks,” said IDPH Acting Director Amaal Tokars. “This uptick is a cause for concern – and serves as a reminder to all of us, especially as we are approaching the coming Father’s Day and Juneteenth weekend, that we can all do our part to fight the virus and protect our friends and family who are vulnerable to severe outcomes by taking some simple actions."
The most effective way to prevent severe illness is for all to be up-to-date with vaccinations and boosters, the statement said.
"This is especially important for elders and persons who are immunocompromised or have complex medical conditions. Wear your mask in indoor public places and avoid indoor crowded spaces. If needed, contact a healthcare provider promptly to discuss what treatment is right for you.”
