For more information visit www.scdph.org

During social distancing, it is easy for seniors to feel isolated and lonely. Sisters Shreya and Saffron recognized this and started Letters Against Isolation. They and their volunteers work together to write handwritten letters to seniors across the country. A small task for individuals of any age could go a long way to brighten an older Illinoisan’s day. To become a letter writer, please fill out the yellow 'Get Involved' form on their website, https://www.lettersagainstisolation.com/.

Though much of Illinois has moved to Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan, a panel of infectious disease and public health experts urge people to continue exercising caution. In interviews with NPR, the panel rates the riskiness of everyday activities.

Outdoor parties, like wedding receptions or graduation celebrations, with more than 10 guests: Experts describe these gatherings as medium to high risk, depending the size of the guest list, whether drinking is involved and whether guests are from the area. Think twice about inviting older relatives or those with underlying health conditions who may be extra vulnerable.

Using a public restroom: Experts say using a public bathroom could be a low to medium risk, depending on the number of local COVID-19 cases and how clean the bathroom is. If you must use a public restroom, stay away from ones that are small, busy and poorly ventilated.

Letting a friend use your bathroom: The panel agrees allowing a friend use your private restroom is low risk. To further reduce the risk, run the fan, leave the door open after use and clean hard and high-touch surfaces.

Going to a vacation house with another family: Low risk, experts agree, especially if both families have been limiting their exposure to others.

Learn more about how to reduce the level of risk for these and other activities at https://www.wbez.org/stories/from-camping-to-dining-out-heres-how-experts-rate-the-risks-of-14-summer-activities/b1753c65-6832-49ce-ac12-cf100155ab9c.

Thinking about quitting smoking? Planning and support can help you quit for good. Before your quit day, take time to prepare for challenges. Visit: https://smokefree.gov/quitting-smoking or call the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at 1-866-QUIT-YES (1-866-784-8937) for more information and support.