More COVID-19 mitigation efforts in Metro East as cases rise
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. (AP) - Additional COVID-19 mitigation efforts will be implemented in the Metro East area of Illinois as the area shows a seven-day positivity rate of 9.6% as a result of coronavirus testing, Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health announced Tuesday.
The action comes as officials reported 1,492 new confirmed cases of coronavirus in Illinois, with 39 additional confirmed deaths. It is the highest number of single day deaths related to COVID-19 since June 26. Officials report 8,064 deaths since the start of the pandemic.
Health Department officials say beginning Wednesday, bars in the area east of St. Louis can no longer offer indoor service, no indoor dining or bar service can be offered by restaurants, and meetings, social events and other gatherings are limited to lesser of 25 guests or 25% of overall room capacity. Indoor visitation in long-term care settings and off-site outings continue to be prohibited.
A seven-day, 9.2% positivity rate in Metro East two weeks ago prompted Pritzker's health team to intervene by forcing restaurants and bars to slash capacity to 25% and close by 11 p.m.
Officials say the health department has been working with local officials to address activities and behaviors contributing to the spread of COVID-19.