Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are well, and for those of you in the 1a or 1b vaccination population, I hope you will shortly receive your COVID-19 vaccine! Read below for more information about the vaccine roll-out, phases, and how you can get help or volunteer in this lifesaving effort. There is a worldwide shortage of vaccine, but volunteers and staff of the Lake County Health Department (LCHD) are working tirelessly to get as many people vaccinated as possible. Please know that the vast majority of vaccines will occur through established health care providers, like clinics, hospitals, doctor's offices, and pharmacies. As a government agency, the LCHD is not meant to be equipped to vaccinate a large population of Lake County residents.
While I do serve on the Lake County Board and the Forest Preserve Board, I do not serve on the Board of Health. However, many of my colleagues and I are volunteering to reply to anxious residents who are calling and emailing with questions every day. It is certainly a frightening time and I hope everyone continues to wear masks, social distance, and wash hands frequently to keep our case count low, decreasing infections and deaths.
As always, it is an honor to serve you, especially in this time of crisis and upheaval. I hope you and yours are healthy and safe.
Take care,
Lake County COVID-19 Update
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COVID-19 Vaccination Information
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Vaccine supply is extremely limited. As of 2/12, more than 63,646 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to Lake County residents, some that were outside of Lake County. To date, Lake County Health Department has only received 58,150 doses of vaccines since December. In order to vaccinate 80% of the County's population, we need to receive 43,000 doses per week to accomplish this in a six-month period. Click here to see doses allocated to Lake County, by week. We expect our allocation to grow exponentially as more vaccines are approved by the federal government.
- Some hospitals, pharmacies, manufacturers, and other partners in Lake County are vaccinating Phase 1b residents so please register in multiple places! Walgreens and other pharmacies are receiving large shipments of vaccines so please check their websites. Visit the Illinois Vaccination Location page to find locations near you.
- The Lake County Health Department continues to vaccinate Phase 1a healthcare workers (by appointment only) at its mass vaccination site at the Lake County Fairgrounds and is phasing in adults 65+ the week of 2/14. This is in line with other Health Depts. across the Chicagoland area. If you are registered in AllVax, you will be notified via email when you can schedule an appointment
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Due to the fluctuating vaccine supply, the Lake County Health Department cannot give an exact date of when it will be your turn to schedule an appointment.
- In partnership with the Health Department, two vaccination clinics at Lake County high schools have begun vaccinating Lake County private and public Pre-K through 12th grade staff.
- In partnership with Abbvie, North Chicago Community Partners (NCCP), and the City of North Chicago, a vaccination site will be in place at Greenbelt Forest Preserves for seniors aged 65+ who live in North Chicago and Waukegan. We are very grateful to NCCP and Abbvie, which will have their own staff going door to door in senior housing in North Chicago and Waukegan to inform residents and get them signed up.
- There are many partnerships being developed to form vaccination sites across all of Lake County. The only obstacle is the vaccine supply.
Opt-In on Allvax to Gain Access to More Vaccine Providers
If you’ve registered on the Lake County Health Department’s Allvax portal, you now have the option to share your information (name, birthdate, email address, phone number and zip code) with other healthcare providers in Lake County, including hospitals and pharmacies, that will be providing the vaccine. By checking the appropriate box to opt in, you gain more access to more locations providing vaccines in Lake County as vaccine supply increases. For example, a hospital or pharmacy in your area who receives your information may reach out to you directly to schedule a vaccine appointment.
How to opt-in: Login to your Allvax account, click the pencil icon under “Edit Info”, and then check the box that says “yes” under the words “Lake County Health Department can share my information with other healthcare providers to facilitate my vaccination process.” By checking the box, your information will only be sent to our partner vaccine providers (hospitals, clinics, etc.) for the purpose of scheduling a vaccine appointment.
Attention Frontline Essential Workers--Please Update Your Information in Allvax: If you are an essential frontline worker in one of the following categories, please login to your Allvax account and check the appropriate box.
- First Responder
- Pre-K through 12th Grade
- Food Production and Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Corrections
- United States Postal Service
- Public Transit
- Grocery Store
- Shelters
- Adult Day Care
- Group Child Day Care
- Group Day Camps
As Illinois updates its COVID-19 Vaccination Plan with additional categories of essential workers, the Allvax system will be updated and you will receive an email letting you know of the changes.
Helpful Links
s for Underserved Communities
Our Health Department has been working with two community partnership groups—Asociacion Comunitaria Latina (ACL) and the African American Community Partnership Group Lake County (AACPG) to address COVID-19 disparities along racial and ethnic lines. These groups will be hosting culturally tailored town halls about the COVID-19 Vaccine:
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A Conversation about the COVID-19 Vaccine and Helping the LatinX Community Register
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The COVID-19 Vaccine and the Black Community
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First Case of COVID-19 Variant from UK Identified in Lake County
The Lake County Health Department is reporting the first case of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) variant B.1.1.7 in Lake County. This variant, first identified in the United Kingdom, along with others that are emerging in other parts of the world seem to spread more easily and quickly than other variants. It is extremely important that you follow quarantine recommendations and get tested if you have traveled or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Wearing masks, washing your hands, and keeping your distance from others continue to be effective in preventing the spread of the virus, regardless of the strain. Learn more
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Lake County Moves into Phase 4
Due to a continued decline in the COVID -19 testing positivity rate, Lake and McHenry counties, which comprise North Suburban Region 9, last week moved into Phase 4, which means a loosening of restrictions.
Please continue to follow all precautions, including staying home if you are ill or have been exposed to someone who is known to have the virus.
Phase 4 Guidelines include:
- Indoor dining and drinking now permitted for parties of up to 10 people.
- Retail, service and personal care establishments limited to 50% occupancy
- Select indoor recreation facilities, including bowling alleys and skating rinks, may reopen
- Meetings and social events are limited to the lesser of 50 people or 50% room capacity
Learn more
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COVID-19 Case Count Update
The Lake County Health Department continues to monitor COVID-19 cases in Lake County. As of Feb. 9, there are 53,299 Lake County residents who have tested positive for COVID-19, including 891 deaths. View the Lake County Coronavirus Datahub
As of Feb. 7, the rolling 7-day average testing positivity rate in North Suburban Region 9, which includes Lake and McHenry Counties, was 5.5 percent. View the Region 9 current information.
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COVID-19 Testing
While vaccinations continue to roll out in Illinois, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 testing is still readily available for those who may have been exposed.
Drive-thru and walk-up testing is available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Waukegan at 102 W. Water Street.
Residents may now schedule an appointment for their COVID-19 test by visiting Illinois Department of Public Health’s MyChart website: https://rebrand.ly/idph. Members of the public can sign in or sign up to create IDPH MyChart account. Once logged in, select ‘Visits’ and then ‘Schedule an Appointment’.
Testing is free and open to all regardless of symptoms. A phone number and name are required in order to receive testing results. High demand for testing may result in long wait times. Testing locations may close early due to inclement weather or if daily testing supplies are exhausted. Additional COVID-19 testing locations and information can be found at the IDPH website.
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Beware of COVID-19 Vaccine Scams
With vaccines in short supply, it is important to be aware of and avoid COVID-19 scams. The COVID-19 vaccine is free for all who choose to receive it. Here are some things to be aware of:
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You should never be asked to pay out of pocket for the vaccine.
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You should never be asked to pay to get on a waiting list or to get early access.
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You should never be asked for your social security number, bank account, or credit card number.
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Get Help
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Get Help Paying Rent and Utilities
If you're a Lake County resident and need help paying rent or utility bills because you've lost income due to COVID-19, you are encouraged to apply for the Lake County COVID Housing Relief Program (CHRP).
Applying is easy—simply dial 211 from your phone or text your zip code to 898211, and you will be connected with someone who can help. Learn more about the Lake County COVID Housing Relief Program.
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Mobile Food Pantries and Pop-Up Food Markets
The Northern Illinois Food Bank maintains a list of mobile food pantries and pop-up food markets planned for Lake County. Families in need of food are invited to come to attend any of the markets to receive free groceries. No ID or registration is required. For a complete calendar, visit solve hunger today.
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Warming Centers Open in Lake County
Dangerously cold wind chills have been impacting our region all week. As temperatures drop, residents that do not have access to heat can utilize a warming center. Learn more
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Health Insurance
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a special enrollment period for health insurance will begin on Feb. 15. People can go to healthcare.gov to find health insurance options.
Employment Resources
Are you looking for a job during this challenging time of layoffs, furloughs, and hiring freezes? Here are some helpful resources:
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Your Personal Brand and Resume: Regardless of your job title or field, you have a personal brand. Learn how to customize your resume and other written tools to help you land a great job! Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1 p.m. online Register here
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Mastering the Virtual Job Interview: Virtual interviews are becoming a staple of the candidate recruiting process. Learn the necessary tips and tricks to successfully interview online and land your next job! Tuesday, Feb. 23, 1 p.m. online Register here
- Four vital Virtual Tools for Job Seekers.
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Calendar of Job Center events
- Schedule time to use the Job Center of Lake County resource room computers for your job search by calling 847-377-3450. Face coverings are required and social distancing guidelines will be followed. For more information, visit the Job Center website.
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Get Hired Illinois: Get Hired Illinois is a single portal where individuals can access virtual job fairs, free online training, and current job listings.
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Get Assistance With ComEd Bills
Commonwealth Edison offers several different programs for individuals and small businesses experiencing financial hardship to receive assistance with their electric bill payments. To learn more, visit ComEd.com/Support.
Mental Health Crisis Care
The Lake County Health Department offers mental health support through its Crisis Care hotline, available 24/7 at (847) 377-8088. Services are free and confidential. Learn more
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Call 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
If you need help finding food, shelter, rent or utility assistance, or other essential services, call 211 or TEXT your zip code to 898211 to speak with someone who can help 24/7. To receive general COVID-19 information via text message, text "COVID19" to 211211. For more information, visit www.211lakecounty.org.
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Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Now Accepting New Loan Applications
To provide continued support to small businesses, the U.S. Small Business Administration has opened the second round of the federal Paycheck Protection Program. First-time applicants can apply here and second-time applicants can apply at this link. Learn more
Recently, Lake County Partners hosted a webinar with more information about the PPP program. View the presentation
How You Can Help
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Blood Donors Needed
Save lives by donating blood! There is currently a nationwide shortage of supply and all blood types are needed. There are two organizations in Lake County that participate in blood collection:
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Vitalant: Vitalant (formerly LifeSource) operates two donation locations in Lake County, in Gurnee and Lake Bluff. Please schedule your appointment in advance by calling 877-258-4825 or visiting vitalant.org.
- American Red Cross: Schedule an appointment at https://redcrossblood.org.
For other ways to help visit Lake County Health Departments on How You Can Help.
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Lake County Government News
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Protect Yourself Against Energy-Related Scams
Commonwealth Edison is warning customers of a recently reported scam in which individuals may pose as an employee from ComEd or another utility or tree service company. They will lure the resident or small-business owner outside to discuss work that they claim needs to be completed.
While the individual is outside, an accomplice will enter the home or business to steal valuables and documents containing the individual’s personal or financial information. Learn more
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Lake County Partners Update
Though 2020 was obviously a difficult year, there were a number of projects that yielded significant investment and new jobs. In fact, over the last two years, Lake County Partner's (LCP) attraction and retention projects brought in over $290M in direct investment, and over 4,200 new or retained jobs. On Thursday February 4th, LCP gave an Economic Development Update to the Lake County Board’s Finance & Administration Committee. To watch that session, click here. Select agenda item 8.28, or fast forward to the 1 hour 33 minute mark.
Report a Concern
Did you know you can report a pothole, a lost pet, or share a crime tip on Lake County's website? Visit www.lakecountyil.gov/ ReportConcern on your computer or mobile device, and your concern will be directly submitted to the appropriate department under Lake County's jurisdiction to be resolved. If a concern relates to a Village/Municipality or other agency, we will notify you and, when possible, direct your concern to the appropriate agency. Please note that this site is for non-emergency issues only. In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
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Preventing Frozen Pipes
Very cold temperatures have the potential to cause one costly repair in your home--frozen pipes. Regardless of the material they’re made from, exposed pipes face the risk of freezing and bursting, which can cause significant damage to homes. Protect your home this winter by taking the proper precautions. Learn more about what you can do to prevent frozen pipes.
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Information for Seniors
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Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral
The Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral is a State of Illinois program that allows qualified senior citizens to defer up to $5,000 yearly to pay property taxes on their personal residence at a 6% simple interest per year. For more information please visit our page on the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program. All applications must be completed and notarized by March 1, 2021.
How to Apply Online for Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze
Property owners age 65 and older who have total household incomes of $65,000 or less are encouraged to apply for the Senior Citizen's Assessment Freeze. Even if you have received the exemption in the past, you MUST apply each year. All applications must be submitted online by July 31, 2021 through the Chief County Assessment Office Smart E-Filing Portal.
Get Help Completing the Online Application:
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Watch a video with Chief County Assessment Officer Bob Glueckert, who demonstrates step-by-step how to apply online for the senior freeze and other exemptions, including those with disabilities.
- Call or visit the Chief County Assessment Office Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 847-377-2050; 18 N. County St., Waukegan, 7th Floor.
- Call or visit your local township assessor’s office Calling ahead for hours of operation is recommended. Learn more
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Infrastructure News
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Stay Informed – Alerts from Lake County Public Works
Extremely cold weather can sometimes lead to water main breaks and other potential service disruptions. If you are a Lake County Public Works Department water and/or sanitary sewer customer, make sure you are signed up for alerts so you can be notified by telephone, text message and email of urgent information. Sign up today, and learn more by watching this video.
Please note that to sign up, you must be a water and/or sanitary sewer customer of the Lake County Department of Public Works. Those who are not a Lake County Public Works customer should contact their water or sewer provider on the best way to get information from them.
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Learn the Ins and Outs of Improving Transportation
Did you know there are ways for you to help improve walking, biking, and transit options in the region? Join the Active Transportation Alliance in February for Suburban Action Week, a virtual event featuring a series of short online talks and workshops with advocates, county staff, and community leaders from around the region.
Register for the free event that runs from Feb. 15 to 20. Tune in at any time. The Lake County Division of Transportation and Lake County Forest Preserves will be providing a Lake County update at this event on Feb. 17 at 3 p.m. Registration is free.
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Provide Input: Arlington Heights Road Reconstruction Project
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) is studying potential improvements to Arlington Heights Road, and we want to hear from you! Arlington Heights Road between IL 83 and Lake Cook Road has reached the end of its service life and needs to be replaced. Lake County is using this opportunity to make safety and operational improvements to the corridor, such as adding turn lanes or connecting sidewalk gaps.
LCDOT has just begun planning for the project and no final plans are being considered at this time. Now, the public is encouraged to provide their input on existing conditions and what the community hopes the project can improve upon.
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Forest Preserve News |
Dunn Museum Reopens
The Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville reopens to the public on Saturday, Feb. 13 with a reduced schedule, online timed ticketing to maintain visitation at a reduced capacity, and other safety protocols in place to comply with COVID-19 concerns. Purchase timed entry tickets in advance online at LCFPD.org /MuseumTickets. Limited walk-in availability.
All public educational programs, including the USG Free Thursday Night programs, will continue to be held virtually. Visit LCFPD.org/calendar for dates and details, or follow @LCFPD on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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Virtual Program: Curious Courtships of Lake County
Learn about the interesting and sometimes odd courtship behaviors of Lake County critters during a virtual presentation that takes place from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. “Curious Courtships of Lake County” virtual program is intended for adults.
This program cannot be registered using a mobile device. Please register using a desktop computer or call 847-367-6640. A Zoom link will be emailed to registered participants no later than one hour prior to the start of the program. Tickets are required. The cost is $5. Learn more and get a ticket to attend»
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Community Events & News
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2021 Garden Learning Series
The University of Illinois Extension, Lake County, and SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County) invite you to get a headstart on Spring and register for the 2021 Garden Learning Series. You'll receive a variety of tips, tricks, resources, and techniques to lead you to success in the garden. Each program will be held the second Wednesday of the month, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sign up for just one or for several. The March and April programs will be offered virtually. Future dates may be offered live. Learn more
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Lake County Restaurant Rally Begins Feb. 26
Support Lake County’s local restaurants during Visit Lake County’s upcoming Restaurant Rally, Feb. 26 to March 7. Learn more
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New Program Provides Resources Via Text to Parents of Young Children
United Way of Lake County has teamed up with Bright by Text, a national parent texting program. Designed for parents and caregivers with children under age 8, this program helps them make the most out of time at home with their children by illustrating fun and easy activities, providing positive parenting tips and resources, and even video content to guide a child’s development. To sign up, text "UWLC" to 27448 and receive two to four educational text messages per week. Learn more
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Top Ten Things to do in February
Visit Lake County has compiled a great list of the top ten things to do in February. This includes many programs to help celebrate Black History Month, sledding, local museums and more. See the Top Ten List. Also, for winter sledding locations, check out a comprehensive guide to sledding and tubing in Lake County.
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Watch County Board and Committee Meetings
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All Lake County board and committee meetings are continuing to be conducted remotely. Meetings are live-streamed at lakecounty.tv and on cable television (Comcast channels 18 or 30, depending on where you live, and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99). The public is also welcome to view the livestream of all meetings in-person at 18 N. County Street, Waukegan, 10th Floor Assembly Room.
The public can also offer "live" public comments during the Zoom meetings from the comfort of their own home or submit comments by email and phone call. Learn more
To see a current schedule of board and committee meetings, click here.
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