The state total of COVID-19 cases has reached almost 7,000 with nearly 1,000 new cases reported Wednesday. The daily update reports 42 additional deaths, including a man in his 90s in Sangamon County, 29 deaths in Cook County, two in DuPage County and one death each in Carroll, Kane, Lake, Will and Winnebago counties. The state reports a total of 141 deaths of those with COVID-19.
Massac and Vermilion counties reported their first cases, bringing the number of Illinois counties with COVID-19 to 56. McLean County reported two additional cases for a total of 20. Sangamon County reported no new cases as its total remains 17 with two deaths.
Illinois High School Association Executive Director Craig Anderson says the organization is optimistic that a shortened spring sports season can occur. In a statement issued Wednesday, Anderson said with a May 1 return to school followed by a practice period to be determined, spring seasons could occur with state tournaments in June. Anderson said competing into or beyond July is not being considered. Anderson added that any further school postponements or ending school attendance for the term will almost certainly cancel activities for the remainder of the IHSA year.
