PITTSFIELD, Ill. — The Pike County Health Department (PCHD) has seen an alarming increase in the rate of COVID-19 cases in Pike County. As of Nov. 10, the PCHD has been informed of 627 lab confirmed positive and 37 probable cases of COVID-19 in Pike County. Of those, 172 cases are active, 11 are hospitalized, and there have been 14 COVID-19 related deaths.

PCHD staff are working tirelessly to reach positive cases and close contacts and have not been able to return calls and messages in a timely manner. Beginning Nov. 9, calls are being triaged to help expedite a response. Please dial 217-285-4407 extension 100. Your Patience is greatly appreciated.

On Nov. 2 Illinois Region 3, which includes Pike County, was put under mitigation requirements by the State of Illinois. The 7-day rolling positivity rate for Pike County has risen to 18.6%. Unless Pike County residents, patrons, employees, and business owners pull together to reduce the spread of the virus, Pike County could be subject to further mitigations. It is up to each and every person to make a difference.

Please wear a mask while in public (indoors or outdoors) when you are unable to maintain social distance, wash your hands, and maintain social distance.

For updates on Pike County COVD-19 cases, please to PCHD’s website at http://www.pikecountyil.org/health-department/health-departmentpress-releases/

For general questions about the COVID-19 virus, call 1-800-889-3931

**These numbers are provisional and subject to change