MetroSouth Medical Center reopens its doors to assist in the battle against COVID-19. Mayor Lori Lightfoot, U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush, State Rep. Bob Rita, and Gov. J.B. Pritzker led the fight to bring life to the health facility located in Blue Island. According to the Chicago Department of Public Health, the center will provide 200 additional beds for isolating and quarantining people who have been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19.
The Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a highly contagious respiratory virus that has infected many, claimed the lives of several, instilled panic and fear, and caused the entire United States to go into quarantine, or as many call it "Social Distancing." And while Americans across the country have spent countless hours glued to their televisions, computers, and phones educating themselves on the virus and waiting for updates, it has also caused a widespread of misinformation about the origin, who is more susceptible, ways to prevent it, and whether or not African Americans are at risk.
With all of the fast-paced changes surrounding COVID-19, we are all concerned about the well-being of ourselves and our loved ones. For those who may be experiencing flu-like symptoms or may have come in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, it is even more confusing and stressful. While most cases are mild and patients can recover at home, the questions of when and where should I be tested are valid and should be effectively addressed. Here is a helpful guide to assist you with those questions.
The Taste of Chicago, Chosen Few Picnic, Movies in the Park, Ravinia, Silver Room Block Park Party, Hyde Park Brew Fest, Jazz Fest, Blues Fest, and more could be canceled if residents do not heed the mayors call to stay home. As a lifelong Chicagoan, I look forward to #SummertimeChi every year. The weekends are filled with times with friends and family at BBQs, cookouts, and the abundance of neighborhood festivals. I want to enjoy my summer, but we all have to do our part.
