Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare Talks Rising Respiratory Infectious Rates and February 12th Blood Drive

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the February 12, 2026, Blood Drive at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee and the rising respiratory infectious rates in Illinois.  January marks National Blood Donor Month, and Samantha Rucks with OSF Healthcare is encouraging Tri-Counties residents to roll up their sleeves and give blood. The next community blood drive at St. Luke Medical Center is scheduled for February 12th from 7 AM to 5 PM. Regular donors are urged to make appointments, but walk-ins are also welcome. There’s a constant need for all blood types, especially O-negative, and local donations primarily serve area patients. Donors can save up to three lives with a single donation and are treated to snacks and small gifts for their generosity. Details can be found at osfsaintluke.org or bloodcenter.org. As respiratory illnesses rise, hospitals remind visitors about potential restrictions and masking policies. If you’re feeling unwell, utilize virtual urgent care or call ahead for appointments to ensure the community stays safe and healthy.