COVID-19 cases along with other viruses are on the rise in the state of Illinois.

63 counties in the state are now at elevated COVID-19 community levels.

And with the holiday season here, health experts are reminding people to take steps to help stop the spread.

"It is flu season," said Dr. Barthel. "We see a rise in respiratory viruses every year around this time. And of course the holidays are here. People are going to be getting together and spending time with one another."

Dr. Mary Barthel with Blessing Health says one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to get vaccinated.

There is the influenza vaccine that she says one should get every year, but as COVID-19 continues to become more contagious, she encourages people to receive a booster vaccine.

"There is also a new booster available for COVID. It's call a bivalent COVID vaccine and it is recommended in everybody age 5 months and older," said Barthel.

Blessing Health will be a great help for those looking to get any vaccine.

"We have all of the vaccines available for influenza and COVID for everybody except the very young children."

But there are also a few very simple steps that can be taken this holiday season to help keep everyone healthy.

"One thing to think about, stay home if you are sick. don't go to work if you're sick," said Barthel. "Don't go to grandma's if you're sick. So, that will help prevent the spread of illness regardless of what virus it is. The best way to prevent transmission of both influenza and COVID this season is to make sure you are vaccinated."