SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Public Health is monitoring a slow but steady increase in COVID-19 case counts across the state.

The CDC reported Friday that 50 Illinois counties are now listed at a high community level for COVID-19, including Marion County, which reported on Friday its first COVID-related death since March.

There are also 44 counties now rated for medium community level spread.

With 94 counties at high or medium level risk for COVID-19, IDPH Acting Director Amaal Tokars said Illinoisans should make sure they are up-to-date with vaccines and booster shots. Tokars noted that it is especially important for people vulnerable to serious medical problems.

The CDC recommends people in areas rated high community level should wear well-fitted masks indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status.

The CDC says those people should also have a plan for at-home testing and talk with a healthcare provider if they test positive to learn about oral antivirals and monoclonal antibodies.