Infected person in self-quarantine
Waupaca County Public Health announced Wednesday that there is a confirmed COVID-19 case in Waupaca County.
This is the first confirmed case in Waupaca County.
The individual has been under self-quarantine as requested by local, state, and federal recommendations.
“We have been preparing and anticipating for a confirmed case in Waupaca County. We will work closely with Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to ensure we are taking all of the appropriate next steps.” said Waupaca County Health Officer Jed Wohlt.
Waupaca County Public Health and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) responsibilities include:
• Identifying and contacting anyone who has been in close contact with a person who has COVID-19. These people are asked to quarantine themselves for 14 days from their exposure. They will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms. People with symptoms will be assessed for testing for COVID-19.
• Providing guidance to clinicians regarding testing.
• Preparing for community spread of COVID-19.
Waupaca County Public Health is keeping track of this outbreak. If someone has been exposed, Public Health will directly contact that individual.
The health department urges everyone to continue to follow everyday preventive measures to help protect yourself and others:
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
• Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Where it’s possible, residents are also encouraged to use telehealth to keep visits to clinics and hospitals to a minimum – for the protection and safety of patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, if you are having symptoms call your doctor before going to the health center.
• Stay at least six feet away from other people.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles).
See CDC’s recommendations for household cleaning and disinfection.
Waupaca County Public Health stresses how crucial it is, now more than ever, to stay home and practice social distancing.
This is a rapidly evolving situation.
Watch for further updates on the Waupaca News website.