SHAWANO, WI- Shawano/Menominee County Health Department addressed the Coronavirus concern on Wednesday.
While Covid-19 cases in Wisconsin have surpassed the 100 mark, the reports of positive cases in local counties are very low.
As of Wednesday, there are not any confirmed cases in Shawano County, but health officials are working hard in helping with testing and community outreach.
Shawano County Health Officer Vicki Dantoin says the most important thing residents can do right now is not overwhelm the system.
“If you are experiencing mild or moderate symptoms, we don’t want you to be seen at that point, but you can call your provider to see if they have any guidance for you.”
The most common symptoms are shortness of breath, fever and cough.
“You may have all of these symptoms, you may have just one,” Dantoin explained.
She says calling ahead will help determine if the patient should be seen or not.
“If you are experiencing more severe symptoms, that is when you should go in.”
Dantoin says if you call 911, expect dispatch to ask some questions as well.
Testing is currently only being done at the hospital.
According to Dantoin, if a case does come back positive, the health officer would begin a process.
“We would interview the person that was affected and determine who their close contacts might be and inform those contacts of exposure without revealing names. We would ensure people remain in isolation and then communicate with the public to keep them informed and try to answer any questions that people may have.”
Dantoin also gave the County Board the latest numbers as of Wednesday afternoon.
“There are well over 1000 negative test results in Wisconsin, and zero positive cases in Shawano County at this time.
Dantoin says it is important to practice handwashing and social distancing and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. She says those who are quarantined need to follow those rules to ensure safety.
She says at this point, people are being urged to postpone or cancel large gatherings and says the goal is to help protect the vulnerable people in the community.
“We should all be acting as if there is an existing case already by practicing good hygiene and social distancing.
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