Where does the CDC recommend masks in Illinois? See COVID community levels by county

The majority of Illinois counties, including St. Clair, are categorized as having a low community COVID-19 level by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of March 10.

The counties of Henderson, Adams, Pike, Macoupin, Montgomery, Perry, Franklin, Jackson, Williamson, Massac and Wabash are in the medium category. Johnson county is considered to be at a high community level.

Along with St. Clair County, Missouri neighbor St. Louis County is also currently at low risk, according to the CDC.

The CDC is set to issue updated community levels each Thursday.

You can see your county’s community level in the interactive map below.

Do I still need to get vaccinated if I’m in a low level community?

According to the CDC, people in low, medium and high community levels should stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. This means one should receive all of the recommended doses in their chosen vaccination series, as well as booster shots when eligible. The CDC also encourages people in all three community categories to get tested when experiencing COVID-related symptoms.

Where do I need to wear a mask?

Those at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 in medium level communities should consult with their doctor about wearing a mask and taking additional precautions, the CDC advises.

For high community levels, everyone should wear a mask in indoor public spaces.

Anyone may still choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of local transmission, and those who are symptomatic, have been exposed to the virus or have tested positive should wear a mask. Masking is still required on most forms of public transportation, but school buses are exempt.

How does the CDC determine community levels?

The federal agency classifies counties by measuring new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, total new cases in the area, and the percentage of staffed inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.

This story was originally published March 11, 2022 at 2:28 PM.