I live in Henry County in Illinois. We still have a coronavirus problem, partly thanks to some young people who don't wear a mask. If you don't wear a mask when you should wear a mask, then you are a stupid fucking asshole who is going to get people killed.

Stark County at Orange Warning Level Henry County Remains at Warning Level

Friday, September 4, 2020

By Sean Kernan

Infections are on the rise in Henry and Stark County and now both counties are on the warning list from Governor J.B Pritzker’s office. According to the latest information from the Henry and Stark County Health Department, the infection rate in Stark County has risen to more than 8% of daily tests conducted in the county. 8% is the warning threshold for every county in the state per the directive of the Governor and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Henry County has remained on the orange warning list for the second week in a row and for good reason. Henry County’s daily infection rate has risen to 13% of all tests conducted daily 3 days in a row.

Duane Stevens, Henry & Stark County Public Health Administrator states, “It is important our area understand how easily COVID-19 is actively spreading. Stark County is experiencing community spread of the virus, meaning that some people testing positive for COVID-19 are not able to pinpoint when or where they may have become infected. This is happening all over the county, not one particular area or town.”

Stevens adds, “We have seen instances of general masking non-compliance by some individuals, businesses, and groups in congregate settings which can lead our current infection numbers. Contact tracing staff members have noted that they are often challenged in their efforts by some cases not being honest in disclosing all their close contacts. We have also seen a lag and delay in seeking testing by individuals with symptoms; as they are attributing them to other maladies such as allergies, stomach flu, sinus infections, etc.”

Another concerning trend, the high percentage of Henry County cases being identified in those 29 years and younger. The Health Department wants to remind young people, the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and it continues to be a serious public health threat. Young people can easily become infected with COVID-19, not experience symptoms and then pass the virus to others more at risk. Those who choose not to wear a mask or disregard the importance of social distancing are putting their parents, grandparents, co-workers, and community at risk.