JEFFERSON COUNTY — The Jefferson County Health Department has reported its third death this week blamed on COVID-19, with 64 additional infections being confirmed since Saturday.

The three recorded deaths were in a woman in her 40s, a man in his 70s and a man in his 60s. All three were reportedly unvaccinated against the virus.

COVID numbers continue to be on the rise throughout the state.

Governor JB Pritzker on Wednesday expanded coronavirus testing to all K-12 schools in hopes of keeping kids in class.

He’s also announced new Coronavirus protocols, which include a statewide indoor mask mandate for all daycares and K thru 12 schools in Illinois.

Failure to comply with the mandate could possibly result in a the state school board removing a school’s recognition.

The state will provide free masks to any school that needs them.