Sign in

IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health

@idph.bsky.social
2.2K followers 87 following 976 posts

Protecting health, improving lives.

PostsRepliesMedia
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
One more thing: IDPH is tracking potential measles exposure locations and updating the list as needed. Check the list + get measles prevention info: dph.illinois.gov/resource-cen...
dph.illinois.gov
IDPH Urges Illinoisans to Get Vaccinated Against Measles as Cases Rise
020
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Think you were exposed to measles? Don’t wait it out. Call your health care provider or local health department right away. Post-exposure treatment may prevent measles or make it less severe if given quickly.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
There are communities in Illinois with lower vaccination rates, including areas currently experiencing a measles outbreak. IDPH and local health departments are working on the ground to get more people vaccinated and stop the spread.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Two doses of MMR = 97% effective at preventing measles. So… when was your last dose? Check your vaccination records or ask your health care provider if you’re not sure.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Measles is preventable. Illinois has confirmed 23 measles cases so far this year. The risk to most Illinoisans remains very low — but checking your MMR status is an easy step you can take now.
142
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
⚠️ Check your hand soap. Six hand soap products have been recalled due to potential bacterial contamination. The products were sold in Illinois and 14 other states. If you have a recalled product, stop using it and check the recall details: www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires…
043
Reposted by IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health
Mother and Child Alliance (MACA) @motherchild.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
You're pregnant! You probably have a lot of things on your mind. Make sure one of those things is a syphilis test. We've teamed up with @idph.bsky.social (Illinois Department of Public Health) to tell you why in the thread below. ⬇️
Graphic with a photo of a pregnant person. Text reads, You're pregnant. Time for ... a syphilis test? It's an easy way to protect yourself and your baby. Here's what you need to know. At the bottom of the image are the logos for Mother and Child Alliance and Illinois Department of Public Health.
111
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Respiratory virus season is here 🫁 Check this year’s immunization recommendations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Save it, share it, and talk with your health care provider about what’s recommended for you. Full guidance: dph.illinois.gov/resource-center/ne…
140
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
In recent prior years, FDA has approved the updated COVID vaccine at the end of August or early September, but we do not have additional information on when an updated vaccine may be available this year.
021
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
An executive order doesn't erase decades of science. Illinois' childhood immunization schedule remains unchanged, because vaccines are safe, effective, and one of our best tools for protecting kids from serious preventable illness. Read more: dph.illinois.gov/resource-cen...
dph.illinois.gov
IDPH Reaffirms Existing Child Immunization Schedule Based on Science
0113
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
the stores are in full 🎃👻🍂 mode, but flu season isn’t quite here yet. for most people, September or October is the best time to get your flu shot to help provide the best protection throughout flu season. talk to your doctor about the best timing for you.
183
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
One more reminder: 🧼 Wash your hands before handling produce. 🥩 Keep produce separate from raw meat and seafood. 🧊 Refrigerate cut or cooked fruits and vegetables within 2 hours.
021
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Most healthy people recover in 1–2 weeks with rest and fluids, but diarrhea can come and go for a month or longer. Some people may need prescription antibiotics. If you think you have cyclosporiasis, contact your health care provider.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Symptoms usually start about 1 week after exposure and can include: 💧 Watery diarrhea 🤢 Nausea 😖 Stomach cramps 🎈 Bloating/gas 😴 Fatigue Some people don't have symptoms at all.
100
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can contaminate food or water, most often fresh produce like leafy greens, herbs, berries, and snow peas. It spreads by eating contaminated food or water—not from casual person-to-person contact.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Skip the soap. Rinse fruits and vegetables under clean running water and scrub firm produce (like melons) with a produce brush. Remove bruised or damaged spots, and peel produce when possible.
101
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
But let's be real... cooked salad? 🤔 Not everything is meant to be cooked. That's why washing produce is still important—whether you're eating it raw or cooking it.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
If you've seen Cyclospora in the news lately, here's what to know: Cooking produce to 158°F (70°C) or higher kills the parasite. Whenever it makes sense, choosing cooked produce over raw can reduce your risk.
121
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
explosive diarrhea-causing parasites being destroyed when you cook produce to at least 158°F
static.klipy.com
Elmo Excited in Fuego
ALT: Elmo Excited in Fuego
2236
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
⚠️ Hydration checkpoint. Drink some water. Find some shade or AC. Check on your people. More heat safety tips: keepcool.illinois.gov
keepcool.illinois.gov
Keep Cool Illinois
Welcome to Keep Cool Illinois, a collaborative effort by state agencies working together to serve the state's residents. Keep Cool Illinois is a one-stop site for information about how to beat the heat of summer in Illinois, how to stay safe during the ...
042
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Good morning. It's hot out there. 🥵 Illinois is in for extreme heat this week. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and check in on neighbors, older adults, and anyone without reliable cooling.
keepcool.illinois.gov
Keep Cool Illinois
Welcome to Keep Cool Illinois, a collaborative effort by state agencies working together to serve the state's residents. Keep Cool Illinois is a one-stop site for information about how to beat the heat of summer in Illinois, how to stay safe during the ...
063
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
This update builds on a 2023 standing order and is part of Illinois' ongoing efforts to expand access to reproductive health care and reduce barriers to care statewide. 📰 Learn more: dph.illinois.gov/resource-cen...
dph.illinois.gov
Illinois Department of Public Health Expands Access to Reproductive Health Products
031
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
"Reproductive health care must be accessible, safe, timely, and centered around the needs of Illinois residents." — IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra
140
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
If a pharmacist determines a patient needs additional care, they'll provide a referral to a physician or other health care provider.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Before providing prescription contraception, pharmacists must: ✔️ Complete state-approved training ✔️ Review a patient self-screening assessment ✔️ Confirm the medication is medically appropriate ✔️ Provide counseling and education
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
The standing order also supports insurance coverage for: ✅ Over-the-counter contraception ✅ Emergency contraception ✅ Condoms ✅ Pregnancy tests
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
What's new? The updated IDPH standing order now includes: ✅ Prescription hormonal contraception ✅ Prescription non-hormonal contraception ✅ Emergency contraception
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Illinois pharmacists who complete specialized training can now provide more contraceptive options directly to patients, helping reduce barriers to care and making it easier to access reproductive health services.
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Every person should be able to access reproductive health care when and where they need it. In Illinois, we're expanding access to contraception through trained pharmacists across the state. 🧵
1122
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
One more thing: food safety. If the power goes out, refrigerated food may become unsafe after 4 hours. When in doubt, throw it out. Stay safe, Illinois. 🌪️
020
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
With severe weather likely today, take a few minutes to: ✓ Charge devices ✓ Review your emergency plan ✓ Know where you'll shelter ✓ Prepare for potential power outages
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
If you're an Illinois resident, you've probably checked the weather app at least three times today. 🌪️ With severe weather likely in much of the state, now is a good time to make sure you're prepared.
1129
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
And don't forget maintenance. A dirty filter can't do its job. Cleaner indoor air starts with small steps.
150
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Before you buy, check: ✓ True HEPA filter ✓ Room size coverage ✓ CADR rating ✓ Filter replacement costs ✓ Noise level
130
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
They're important tools, but they're not magic. They DON'T: ✗ Instantly remove all germs ✗ Replace ventilation ✗ Clean an entire home from one room ✗ Cure allergies or asthma And they work best when used in combination with other healthy habits!
120
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
If you're shopping for one, look for a True HEPA filter. HEPA filters are the gold standard for capturing tiny airborne particles (like the ones that cause COVID-19, colds, and flu).
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Air purifiers work by pulling air through a filter and trapping particles before circulating cleaner air back into the room.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Most of us spend the majority of our time indoors. The air inside can contain dust, smoke, pollen, pet dander, mold particles, and other airborne pollutants.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Things we wish more people knew about air purifiers 🧵
140
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
Misinformation spreads fast during outbreaks. For updates, rely on trusted public health sources like IDPH.
030
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
We know news about outbreaks can feel alarming. Right now, the risk to the general public in Illinois remains low, and public health agencies are actively monitoring the situation.
130
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
Illinois has preparedness plans in place for diseases like Ebola. IDPH is coordinating closely with CDC, healthcare systems, laboratories, and local health departments. Illinois also has specialized treatment centers prepared to care for potential Ebola patients if needed.
131
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
To help prevent spread, the CDC has increased traveler screening measures and restricted entry of non-U.S. citizens from impacted countries. Travelers who have recently visited affected areas are also being funneled through Washington Dulles Airport for additional public health monitoring.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
Ebola is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus. People who become sick often require intensive medical care. Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of someone who is sick with Ebola. It does NOT spread through casual contact.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
IDPH is closely monitoring an Ebola outbreak affecting parts of Central and East Africa. At this time, the risk to people in Illinois remains LOW. There are currently no confirmed Ebola cases in the U.S.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
⚠️ "Should I be worried about Ebola?" Short answer: risk is extremely low. Long answer: keep reading. Here’s what Illinois residents should know 🧵
152
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
🆕 5/20/26 UPDATE: Confirmatory testing by CDC did not detect hantavirus in the previously reported suspected Winnebago County case. The resident is no longer considered a potential hantavirus case and no further public health action is needed.
041
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
Reminder: deli meats and refrigerated ready-to-eat foods should always be stored and handled safely to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. More information is available: www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-aler...
fsis.usda.gov
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
If you ate the product and feel sick, contact a healthcare provider.
110
IDPH | Illinois Department of Public Health @idph.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
Listeria can cause serious illness, especially for pregnant people, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and diarrhea or other stomach symptoms.
110