Illinois Names Rush, Lurie Hospitals Special Pathogen Centers

The Governor of Illinois announced today that the state of Illinois will partner with two Chicago hospitals to battle infectious disease threats.

Hospitals Will Become Elite Special Pathogen Treatment Centers

In a press release, Governor JB Pritzker announced that Illinois is partnering with Rush University Medical Center and Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital to become Elite Special Pathogen Treatment Centers.

These centers will focus on treating patients with "high-consequence pathogens," such as Ebola, Lassa fever, and pneumonic plague.

Strengthening Illinois' Response to Global Health Threats

Through agreements with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Rush will receive $900,000 and Lurie Children's $600,000 in state funding.

According to the press release, the money will help to support critical upgrades, isolation rooms, specialized equipment, and advanced training to safely manage highly infectious diseases.

Governor Pritzker Takes Swipe at President Trump

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker highlighted the importance of local action, adding, "Even as the Trump administration decimates our national healthcare infrastructure, Illinois is stepping up to protect working families."

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The IDPH Director also stated that this move is essential for a global hub like Chicago, home to O'Hare International Airport, which is well-known for being the nation's busiest international gateway.

Building a National Model for Readiness

According to the press release, the federal government's national pathogen treatment network excludes Illinois; this is why the partnership between Rush and Lurie ensures the state will be prepared.

Each hospital will maintain the capability to treat two infected patients at a time, with support from tools like BlueDot and a new Global Health Advisory Coalition.

IDPH is aiming to make Illinois a national model in pandemic readiness and response.

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