Gov. Pritzker Orders Closure of All Illinois Schools, Including CPS, Over Coronavirus Concerns
(WTTW News)
Gov. J.B. Pritzker is ordering the closure of all public and private K-12 schools across the state, including Chicago Public Schools, starting Tuesday, March 17. It's the largest closure to date related to the spread of the novel coronavirus in Illinois, where 46 people have so far tested positive for the illness.
Schools are scheduled to reopen March 30, Pritzker said at a news conference Friday.
The announcement comes hours after President Donald Trump said he is declaring the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency, a move that will free up $50 billion for state and local governments to respond to the outbreak.
Earlier Friday, the Archdiocese of Chicago announced all of its schools in Cook and Lake counties will temporarily close starting Monday. Dozens of school districts in the Chicago area have already canceled classes and implemented electronic learning due to fears over the spread of COVID-19.
Coronaviruses are respiratory viruses that range from the common cold to more serious illnesses, like SARS and MERS. There is no treatment or vaccine for the virus.
Health officials encourage people to take daily preventive measures to slow the spread of the virus, such as frequent handwashing, routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces and objects, and covering coughs and sneezes.
Most importantly, officials say, stay home if you're sick.
For more information about the coronavirus, visit IDPH's website, call its dedicated COVID-19 hotline (800-889-3931) or send an email.
Check back for updates. This is a developing story.
Contact Kristen Thometz: @kristenthometz | (773) 509-5452 | kthometz@wttw.com
https://news.wttw.com/2020/03/13/gov-pritzker-orders-closure-all-illinois-schools-including-cps-over-coronavirus-concerns
