A surge in coronavirus cases caused by the Omicron and Delta variants has dampened New Year celebration plans across the world. There have been large cancellations and downscaling. Governor J.B. Pritzker put it bluntly as he advised party hopefuls to stay at home instead. He warned the Omicron and Delta could gatecrash their New Year party.
The Illinois Governor was speaking at an update briefing on the pandemic on Monday. He urged residents to take care and consider twice before joining the crowd of revelers.
J.B. Pritzker’s caution comes even as there has been a surge of coronavirus across the country, especially the Omicron variant. Many Illinoisans reported sick and there has been a spike of cases in hospitals across the state, especially in the Chicago region.
Chicago, like other cities and towns across the US, is planning celebrations free from COVID-19. Fireworks display at midnight along the Chicago River and the lakefront to usher in 2022.
J.B. Pritzker said that over 100 workers in collaboration with a state health care provider will visit regional vaccination sites.
J.B. Pritzker Urged People To Get Vaccinated To Protect Their Family And Community
Residents can opt to participate in person, but take the necessary precautions of maintaining social distance and masking up. J. B. Pritzker advised that the best way this year would be to watch from the comforts of their home. B. Pritzker also announced that free community testing for the virus would be available 6 days a week instead of 4, and will be increased by 50%.
Dr. Ezike, Director, Dept. of Public Health, said that people will have fun when it comes to New Year’s Eve celebrations. But she explained that those who opt to partake in the celebrations can take the necessary precautions. This will drastically reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
She said that people need to retain their masks whenever they are in a public place. People should keep some distance when they are eating or drinking. She said that moving on to 2023 could hopefully be a mask-less year. but for now, people are advised to follow the rules for their safety.
At a news conference in downtown Chicago, J.B. Pritzker said that people need to get vaccinated as people without them get very sick and are a risk to their families. He said that unvaccinated people pose a threat and let other people fall sick through their carelessness.
