Coronavirus

Illinois Governor Activates National Guard To Help Fight Outbreak

The Illinois National Guard says 60 service members are being activated to help respond to the coronavirus outbreak.

Illinois Governor Activates National Guard To Help Fight Outbreak
Illinois National Guard Public Affairs
SMS

The governor of Illinois has activated 60 National Guard members to assist with combating the spread of the coronavirus.

The Illinois National Guard said these members include 43 Airmen from the Peoria-based 182nd Airlift Wing's Medical Group, and 17 planners and liaison officers from both the Army National Guard and Air National Guard units. They will assist the state with logistical support and medical staffing. 

Florida, New Jersey and Texas have also turned to the National Guard for support in fighting the growing outbreak. Assistance efforts have included distributing food, converting buildings for quarantine and testing for the virus.

Illinois documented its first coronavirus-related death this week. The state has closed all schools and restaurants in its fight against the spread of the virus.