Latest Health News From The Illinois Newsroom Team
New Illinois bill aims to address ‘asset trap’ for residents with disabilities
In Illinois, asset limits tied to public benefits can make even modest savings risky for many people with disabilities. A bill in the state legislature aims to keep people informed about their options.

Protein is everywhere right now. We asked experts: do we really need more?
As companies launch an array of protein-rich products and new federal dietary guidelines advise Americans to prioritize protein, nutrition experts have mixed feelings about the new emphasis on protein.

Bill expanding access to discounted drugs awaits House action
Advocates for health care providers that treat low-income and uninsured patients are pressuring state lawmakers to pass legislation they say would prevent drug manufacturers from restricting access to medications that are discounted through a federal pharmacy program.

As Illinois increasingly becomes destination for abortion access, a new public-private partnership emerges
Thousands of abortion-seekers have traveled to the state, which has laws that protect abortion.

New C-U Public Health director says he’ll focus on access to affordable health care in Champaign-Urbana
The new head of public health in Champaign County says he’s adamant about health equity and equal access to affordable health care. Dr. Mamadou Tounkara is stepping into the role following former administrator Julie Pryde’s retirement in January after 30 years of service.

Despite concerns, LaHood doesn’t break with administration over vaccinations
Congressman Darin LaHood is not breaking entirely with the Trump administration on the vaccine question — even while acknowledging he now has more than just concerns.

A tick bite made this rancher allergic to her own cattle. It’s a worsening issue for farmers
Alpha-gal syndrome, a tickborne allergy to red meat and dairy, has become more common in the last few years.

Providers say feds’ new rural health care grants to Illinois won’t cover Medicaid cuts
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said between 190,000 to 360,000 Medicaid recipients are at risk of losing coverage in Illinois because of new work requirements.

Case of Legionnaires’ disease confirmed at state-operated developmental center
Shapiro Developmental Center is home to more than 450 with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Flu cases are on the rise in Champaign County, health officials say
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health district is urging residents to get vaccinated and protect themselves as the county is seeing an uptick in flu cases.

Trump administration says it’s withholding social safety net money from 5 states over fraud concerns
Officials in the states say the administration is motivated by politics. The administration has not given details of the pause on funding or the fraud claims.

Carle Health adds visitor restrictions amid rise in respiratory illnesses
Carle Health has placed temporary visitor restrictions to limit the spread of respiratory illnesses at each of its facilities.


