Illinois Coronavirus: Pritzker Advocates Voting By Mail

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the coronavirus case count is now at 25, with six new cases confirmed since Tuesday. The new cases include a Lake County resident and five additional Cook County cases. As Pritzker spoke, news also broke that the Illinois State Capitol will be closed until March 24 amid the spread of coronavirus.

Those six new Illinois coronavirus cases are a man in his 50s from Lake County and in Cook County:

• A man in his 80s
• Two men in their 70s
• A woman in her 50s
• A man in his 40s

Hours after numerous Irish parades and St. Patrick's Day events across the state were canceled, Pritzker also said residents should "think critically" before attending any type of large event — and consider obtaining a vote by mail ballot for the March 17 primary.

Thursday is the last day to request a vote by mail ballot. That can be done on local county clerk's websites and elections.il.gov.

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Asked about opening day for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox, Pritzker said Major League Baseball is expected to offer guidance.

The Chicago Cubs are currently set to begin their season at Miller Park in Milwaukee on March 26, with a home opener set for March 30 against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Chicago White Sox are set to start the season at home vs. Kansas City.

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