GV-NB Coronavirus Response
January 7, 2022 Updates for the District 34 Community
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Same, But Different
The Glenview Northbrook Coronavirus Response team last sent out a community-wide message in August. Since then, we have continued to meet to share information, resources and ideas to keep our community safe and healthy. Our organizations were actively involved in providing the very successful vaccine clinics for children ages 5-11 in Northbrook, and are working on plans for a booster clinic for 12-15 year olds in response to the recent CDC approval of the Pfizer booster for that age group (see below!).
As you can see on the local health dashboard, COVID cases are higher than ever. Glenbrook Hospital is reporting significant increases in patients admitted with COVID; in fact, the hospital’s inpatient care is dedicated solely to COVID care. All NorthShore University Health hospitals have paused elective procedures and restricted visitors.
However, January 2022 is not the same as January 2021 (and certainly is much different than March 2020). Vaccinations are available to everyone ages 5 and older, and our community has a high vaccination rate (73.3% of the population in Glenview and 78.4% in Northbrook is fully vaccinated). Data from CDC and IDPH, and our own school data, show that the spread of COVID in schools remains lower than the spread throughout the community; they are the safest places for children and our districts are committed to keeping children in person. The greatest challenge (for schools, and for every other employer) is managing the critical staffing shortages caused by the surge of COVID cases among employees.
Another challenge is adapting to and communicating ever-changing guidance. Our schools will be doing just that in the coming days. Today, IDPH announced new school guidelines for isolation and quarantine will be released soon to more closely align with CDC guidelines. However, schools will continue to operate under existing guidelines until formal adoption (which could occur at any time).
Upcoming COVID-19 Booster Clinic for Children 12-15
Cook County Order
On Dec. 23, 2021, the Cook County Department of Public Health issued Mitigation Order 2021-11, requiring businesses to check the vaccination status of their patrons, and only allow entry for fully-vaccinated individuals age 5 and older. This Cook County-issued order applies to all indoor settings where food or drink are served for on-premises consumption and became effective beginning Jan. 3.
Additionally, according to the Cook County order, employees of businesses are required to be vaccinated, or must provide a weekly negative COVID-19 test. Businesses are required to post signage that advises their patrons of this requirement at the public entrances of the business. Sample signs are available for business use in English and Spanish.
To learn more about the County's order, including which businesses and individuals are impacted and exempted, please click here.
Questions and concerns about the new order can be directed to the Cook County Department of Public Health: https://cookcountypublichealth.org/contact-us/.
Back to Basics
“The three Ws” — wear masks, watch distance, wash hands — are more important than ever.
For all community members age 5 or older, vaccination (including boosters for anyone eligible) is the most effective step in moving from pandemic to endemic. Walk-ins are welcome in many local pharmacies and you can use the CDC’s online vaccine search tool to find an appointment that works for you.
Testing Capacity Expanding
Good News Stories
Our communities always have good news to share! Take a look at the latest good news in Glenview and Northbrook.