Health officials say B-A-2 is more contagious than other strains of the virus, and accounts for about 25 percent of the cases in Illinois. On Monday, Governor J.B. Pritzker hinted at taking precautions if he sees fit.

Local health department officials are monitoring the latest developments. Vaccines are still available.  Pritzker says the state has more than 1.5 million rapid tests and more on the way. The governor is also calling on schools to get prepared for testing and be ready if there is another surge in cases.

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