News

Walworth County has first confirmed case of COVID-19

Walworth County Division of Public Health announced Wednesday that there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Walworth County.

The person recently traveled domestically and at the recommendation of Walworth County Division of Public Health, voluntarily self-isolated upon returning to the community. The Division of Public Health said no additional information will be provided.

“We are in daily contact with this individual to monitor their symptoms and ensure they are receiving support to be able to isolate at home,” Walworth County Public Health Officer Erica Bergstrom said. “Walworth County Division of Public Health is keeping track of this outbreak. We are working with our local, state, and federal partners to deal quickly and effectively when people have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been around people that have been infected with the coronavirus. Walworth County Division of Public Health will directly notify close contacts of any identified cases.”

The Walworth County Division of Public Health and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services 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 and will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms. People with symptoms are tested for COVID-19;
  • Monitoring and tracking test results for individuals who test positive to determine when a person can be released from isolation based on CDC guidelines; and
  • Providing guidance to clinicians regarding testing.

To reduce risk of getting sick, the Walworth County Division of Public Health is advising everyone to follow these simple steps:

  • Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water;
  • Cover coughs and sneezes;
  • Avoid touching your face;
  • Stay home when sick; and
  • Practice social distancing

“Walworth County Division of Public Heatlh is ready to deal with an increased number of cases. We will continue to work with DHS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and our local partners to make sure our community remains safe and healthy,” Bergstrom said.

This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information, visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov or the DHS website at www.dhs.wisconsin.gov.

For the latest information about COVID-19 in Walworth County, visit www.co.walworth.wi.us/856/COVID-19.

Comments are closed.