Given the varying levels of uncertainty in regards to hosting public events due to the progression of COVID-19, your health and safety are our top priority at IHCC.
We want you to know that we are committed to doing our part to keep both our members, guests, staff, and community healthy.
Businesses should review their emergency operations plan, including identification of essential business functions, teleworking and flexible sick leave policies. For more information, see CDPH’s COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses and Employers.
Also, IHCC wanted to make sure you have this note from Mayor Lightfoot to our city stakeholders along with the information attached about Coronavirus Disease.
Please share with your employees as appropriate.
Dear Chicagoan,
The health and safety of Chicago residents and visitors is our top priority, as we continue to monitor the ongoing health implications related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that is primarily spread in the same way colds and flu are spread: by droplets from coughs and sneezes. Our public health professionals and City officials are working in tandem with federal, state and local officials and agencies to continuously monitor the evolving situation and appropriately alter our response plans to mitigate community spread.
As of today, Illinois has had several confirmed cases of COVID-19, including a Chicago Public Schools (CPS) employee. Current information suggests that more cases could be identified in the United States, which is why we are taking precautions and measures to protect residents.
Chicago is enhancing its surveillance efforts and was among the first cities in the U.S. to expand testing. As part of CDC’s community surveillance and in an effort to diagnose new cases of COVID-19 quickly and prevent community spread, several emergency departments in Chicago, as well as others across Illinois, are testing a sample of patients who present with influenza-like symptoms for COVID-19. Specimens that are negative for flu are tested for novel coronavirus infection.
To help residents healthy during flu season and in light of COVID-19, the Chicago Department of Public Health strongly recommends that seniors and those most vulnerable to becoming seriously ill consider avoiding large crowds, traveling only if necessary, and taking extra precautions when leaving the house.
CDPH also recommends the following general guidance for all residents and visitors:
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Clean your hands often with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
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If you are sick, stay home, unless you are seeking medical care. Look out for symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. If you’re not familiar with your department’s sick leave policy, please talk to your supervisor or HR representative.
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While sick, cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, and wash your hands.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, phones and tabletops.
The City is committed to keeping Chicago’s residents and visitors informed as we learn more, and we remain confident that preparation we’ve done for moments like this will serve to protect the health and wellness of our communities in the face of the virus.
We will continue providing regular updates for residents, businesses and travelers, as information pertaining to COVID-19 is changing rapidly.
The best way to learn about the latest information is by visiting and bookmarking www.chicago.gov/coronavirus.
Sincerely,
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot