CHICAGO — With the announcement of four new cases in Illinois of COVID-19, Gov. JB Pritzker has issued a disaster proclamation, which he says is Illinois’ version of a state of emergency.

The governor said the declaration would allow the state to tap additional federal resources and “reduces red tape across state government.”

“To be clear, he said, “this declaration will build on an already robust response that has been developed over many months,” the governor said.

Pritzker added that he wants people to understand this is going to affect their daily lives, but that the government at all levels is working on the problem. He pledged a daily press conference where information would be conveyed “honestly.”

He asked people not to hoard supplies, particularly medical supplies but recommended that people check up on seniors and others who could be vulnerable.

“Look for helpers. There are always people who are helping,” he said, quoting Mr. Rogers.

IDPH and the Chicago Department of Public Health announced four new COVID-19 cases in Illinois, bringing the total to 11.

All four cases are in good condition. The first two cases in the state announced last month have recovered without known transmission to additional individuals. The remaining patients are in isolation either at home or in a hospital.

IDPH is currently operating three testing labs statewide – in Chicago, Springfield and Carbondale.

In addition, a sample of patients who present with flu-like symptoms are being tested at 15 hospitals statewide: seven hospitals in Cook County, three hospitals in other areas of northern Illinois, three hospitals in Central Illinois and two hospitals in Southern Illinois to monitor for the presence of the virus in our communities.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, public health officials urge the general public to take the same precautions as during flu season — with renewed vigilance:

Plan a safe visit to the doctor if you experience any symptoms

Vulnerable populations – including people 60 years and older or those with certain health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and weakened immune systems – are recommended to avoid large gatherings.

The Illinois Department of Public Health has a statewide COVID-19 hotline and website to answer any questions from the public or to report a suspected case: call 1-800-889-3931 or visit IDPH.illinois.gov.