ILLINOIS (WITHERS BROADCASTING) — So far, big cities have been hardest hit by the novel coronavirus outbreak spreading across the U.S. While there are no confirmed cases in Saline, Gallatin, Pope, or Hardin Counties as of Friday morning, one area official says the area is not home free.

Pope County EMA Director Chris Hahn says we should treat the virus as if it is already here.

For more information on COVID-19, go to coronavirus.illinois.gov.