 The last few weeks have been challenging as we have begun to feel the impact of a national pandemic. I wanted to keep you updated on some of the steps Cook County has taken to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and support our communities during this difficult time.
How we help and support one another now will define this chapter in our history. Let’s all do our part to navigate this chapter together.
Sincerely,
Stay updated with Cook County text alerts and dedicated hotline and email
Residents can sign up for text alerts to receive the latest updates regarding COVID-19 or contact the dedicated hotline and email.
- To receive text alerts, text “alertcook” to 888-777.
- Call 708-633-3319 for answers to frequently asked questions. The hotline is available Monday through Friday during office hours and voicemails will be returned. Live translation services are available in all major languages.
- Email COVID-19 questions and concerns to COVID19@cookcountyhhs.org
County Offices Closed to the Public: Vital Services Available Online
Pursuant to Executive Order 2020-5, which follows the guidelines of Governor Pritzker's "Stay at Home" Executive Order 2020-10, please be advised that County facilities will be closed to the public effective March 23, 2020 to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please visit specific agency pages for more information about office hours and remote contact information. Services will still be available online, and staff will still be available by phone or email, even though physical office spaces are closed to the public.
For more information, resources and Frequently Asked Questions about the Stay at Home order, visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.
Business Resources
Cook County’s Department of Revenue is taking steps to support businesses experiencing financial issues related to reduced operations. There are tax relief options available by request, and individuals or businesses can request an extension on Home Rule Taxes by emailing revenuecompliance@cookcountyil.gov
Employment Questions
For information regarding unemployment insurance related to COVID-19 or earned sick leave policies can visit the service page for the Department of Human Rights and Ethics.
President Preckwinkle Op-ed: We are one Cook County, one people, in fighting the coronavirus
Check out President Preckwinkle's op-ed from last week in the Chicago Sun-Times: "We are navigating uncharted waters. We are all making difficult choices every day. These choices are hard and ones that we would rather not have to make — but when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, our local governments and the people of Chicago and Cook County will rise to the challenge."
Last week, the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) distributed more than 70,000 masks, gloves, and gowns to first responders in the County, amid a national shortage in personal protective equipment. Most of the materials came from the county’s emergency supply.
President Preckwinkle issued disaster proclamation until May 31
Building on the County's coordinated and collaborative approach to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), President Preckwinkle signed a disaster proclamation on March 10, a proactive measure giving County officials another operational tool in its continuing response efforts.
The proclamation will allow for greater collaboration with municipal, state and federal partners. It also positions the County, along with the state of Illinois which has also issued such a declaration, to access funding and support from the federal government when additional resources are necessary and funding is made available.
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Resources
Cook County Government's response: https://www.cookcountyil.gov/service/information-covid-19
Cook County Department of Public Health: https://www.cookcountypublichealth.org/communicable-diseases/novel-coronavirus/
- Updated cases in Cook County
- Information for healthcare providers and communities
- Detailed health and hygiene recommendations
- Contact information for suburban Cook County
- Information for individuals: Clean, Cover and Contain
Illinois Resource Website: http://www.coronavirus.illinois.gov
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Regularly posted updates on new cases in Illinois
- Updated cautions and advisories
- Recommendations specific to Illinois
Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/COVID-19
- Downloadable factsheets and flyers in English, Spanish and Simplified Chinese
- Health and hygiene recommendations
- Travel guidance
- Situation updates
- Information specific to schools, workplaces, etc.
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