COVID-19 cases in Illinois reach 288

The number of confirmed cases of new coronavirus in Illinois has nearly doubled.

Officials announced an additional 128 cases Wednesday, bringing the state total to 288 in 17 counties. That includes the first confirmed cases in Kendall and Madison counties.

The spike is due to an increase in the ability to test patients and the general spread of COVID-19.

“I don’t say this lightly but, unfortunately, the grim truth is these numbers will continue to grow significantly, as will, likely, the unfortunate statistic of fatalities,” said Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.

The state reported its first death Tuesday.

Of the new cases, 20 are tied to an outbreak at a long-term care facility in DuPage County. The total cases associated with the facility’s outbreak is now 42.

Health News Illinois is removing the password on all stories related to the coronavirus. For the latest developments follow us on Twitter at @healthnewsil or check out our website. For complete healthcare coverage, sign up for a free trial to our daily email newsletter.