CHICAGO – Illinois voters in swing and red areas of the state are facing a sudden surge in COVID cases.
Starting Friday, Governor Pritzker has ordered four more counties (which all happen to be politically purple) – DuPage, Kane, Will and Kankakee – to return to some restrictions included in Phase 3 restricted Phase 3 along with COVID Region 5 – the politically reddest part of the state.
UPDATE: The governor's orders are not for these regions to completely return to Phase 3 – those orders include shutting down schools and other 25+ person gatherings. Instead, Governor Pritzker is focused at this time on shutting down indoor dining and bars.
The Phase 3 COVID Illinois Restrictions are as follows:
Gatherings: All gatherings of 10 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to change based on latest data & guidance
Travel: Travel should follow IDPH and CDC approved guidance
Health care: All health care providers are open with DPH approved safety guidance
Education and child care: Remote learning in P-12 schools and higher education; Limited child care and summer programs open with IDPH approved safety guidance
Outdoor recreation: State parks open; Activities permitted in groups of 10 or fewer with social distancing
Businesses:
- Manufacturing: Non-essential manufacturing that can safely operate with social distancing can reopen with IDPH approved safety guidance
- “Non-essential” businesses: Employees of “non-essential” businesses are allowed to return to work with IDPH approved safety guidance depending upon risk level, tele-work strongly encouraged wherever possible; Employers are encouraged to provide accommodations for COVID-19-vulnerable employees
- Bars and restaurants: Open for delivery, pickup, and drive through only
- Personal care services and health clubs: Barbershops and salons open with IDPH approved safety guidance; Health and fitness clubs can provide outdoor classes and one-on-one personal training with IDPH approved safety guidance
- Retail: Open with capacity limits and IDPH approved safety guidance, including face coverings
