© 2024 WGLT
A public service of Illinois State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
WGLT's reporting on the coronavirus pandemic, which began in McLean County in March 2020.

McLean County Tops COVID Hospitalization Record, Confirms Another Death

Emily Bollinger
/
WGLT
The number of vaccine doses administered in McLean County is down 19% over the past week, according to state data.

Another McLean County resident has died from COVID-19 complications -- a man in his 80s who did not live in a long-term care facility.

His death brings the county’s toll since the start of the pandemic to 218.

The county also broke a new hospitalization record with 61 residents being treated for coronavirus complications. That's up two patients in the past day. Hospital bed capacity is largely unchanged.

The McLean County Health Department (MCHD) reports 43 new cases, as thetesting positivity rate dips to just under 5% (4.9%). Wednesday’s cases were found in a batch of about 2,000 test results returned overnight.

Despite increasing hospitalizations and deaths, the county’s active caseload continues to decline. At 507, the active caseload is the lowest it has been since April 1. There are 446 county residents isolating at home. Another 78 people are now considered recovered.

About 118,814 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in McLean County, according to state data. That’s an increase of more than 1,500 shots in the past day.

But vaccination efforts have slowed. The number of vaccines administered dropped 19% week to week, based on figures from the Illinois Department of Public Health.

MCHD is now allowing walk-in appointments at its vaccine clinics. That includes Wednesday’s Pfizer vaccine clinic at Grossinger Motors Arena, where walk-ins are available until 3:15 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to register in advance online. The Pfizer vaccine is available teens ages 16 and 17, but a parent or guardian must be present for the vaccination.

There's no subscription fee to listen or read our stories. Everyone can access this essential public service thanks to community support. Donate now, and help fund your public media.

Dana Vollmer is a reporter with WGLT. Dana previously covered the state Capitol for NPR Illinois and Peoria for WCBU.