SHAWANO, WI – Health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant as respiratory illnesses continue to surge across Wisconsin, including in Shawano and Menominee counties.
Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Director Nick Mau says current data shows very high statewide activity for respiratory illnesses, a trend that is also being felt locally as winter conditions push more people indoors.
According to Mau, influenza and COVID-19 cases are both on the rise, placing added strain on local healthcare systems. He says some hospitals in the region have reached maximum capacity, forcing patients to be transported to other facilities for care.
With illness levels climbing, health officials are emphasizing the importance of prevention, especially vaccination.
“Vaccination still just remains a really, really helpful tool,” Mau said. “No vaccine can prevent an illness 100 percent, but staying up to date on recommended vaccines greatly reduces the risk of severe disease.”
Mau also reminds residents that vaccines do not provide immediate protection. It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build full immunity.
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