In the two weeks since our last update, there have been dramatic developments in the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Unfortunately, the expected surge in COVID-19 cases has reached Illinois and the Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH) service area.
As of March 31, EEH was treating 73 patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19 (31 at Edward Hospital, 42 at Elmhurst Hospital). We’ve had seven deaths of patients who were being treated for COVID-19.
In Illinois, as of March 31, there were 5,994 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 99 deaths. In the United States, nearly 164,000 confirmed cases and 2,860 deaths, and worldwide, 838,000 confirmed cases and more than 41,000 deaths.
We’re hopeful the stay-at-home order by Gov. J.B. Pritzker helps us begin to “flatten the curve.” In the meantime, our infection control experts expect the numbers of confirmed cases and deaths in Illinois to continue their upward trend.
Like all other hospitals and health systems throughout the country, we are dealing with the numerous challenges presented by COVID-19. I can assure you, due to the tireless efforts of our nurses, doctors, staff and leadership, we are meeting those challenges and providing the compassionate, high-quality care our patients and community expect and deserve.
We’re doing that, in great part, due to our excellent partnerships with all of you – elected officials, community leaders, first responders, schools, and business and civic organizations. We’d like to send a special thanks to U.S. Reps. Sean Casten, Bill Foster and Lauren Underwood for hosting a COVID-19 roundtable at Edward Hospital on March 16.
We’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the community, individuals and organizations who’ve donated masks and other personal protective equipment, food and funds to Edward-Elmhurst Health during this crisis. The incredible outpouring of support is humbling and inspirational. I can assure you those on the front lines appreciate the donations and words of encouragement.
Finally, we strongly urge you and your families to continue following social distancing guidelines and these steps to protect yourself and others.
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