The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced that after a one-week dip, the state’s overall respiratory illness level has ticked up again from Moderate to High, driven by a notable increase in emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions for flu. While data for ED visits and hospital admissions for the week ending January 25 show that COVID-19 and RSV are declining, it indicates the flu is circulating more widely. The state’s overall respiratory activity level as calculated by the CDC moved up to High in late December but dipped to Moderate in January for one week before ticking up to High again in the most recent week, driven by increasing rates of flu.  If anyone is feeling symptoms of respiratory illness – such as a fever, runny nose, sore throat or cough – IDPH recommends getting tested and treated early in the course of their illness, especially if they are at risk for serious illness or spreading it to someone who is at risk of serious illness. Those who are ill should avoid spreading germs to others by self-isolating (i.e. staying away from others when they are ill) or wearing a mask if unable to isolate. For help finding a provider of vaccines near you, go to www.vaccines.gov. Vaccine information is also available for Illinoisans who are uninsured or underinsured, and for children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program, through IDPH’s Vaccine Locator Dashboard. Adults without insurance can also check with their local health department for options or contact a free and charitable clinic or a Community Health Center.