Multiple people are being tested for coronavirus, but as of Friday morning there were no confirmed cases of the disease in Walworth County, according to the Walworth County Public Health Department.
Cancellations and postponements have become the norm in the area and across the nation as the disease, which originated in China, has been classified as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization.
The Walworth County Public Health Department stated in a news release on its website Friday morning that the department is actively monitoring disease status and is in frequent contact with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
“We routinely control the spread of communicable disease and have all procedures in place necessary to respond to this disease,” the release states.
“With the expanded availability of testing it is likely that we will continue to see an increase in the number of cases identified throughout the U.S.,” according to the department.
Local health officials stressed the key to stopping the spread of disease remains staying home when you are sick.
“Continue to wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs and sneezes, and avoid touching your face,” the department said. “Individuals over age 60 and with coexisting conditions currently appear to be the most severely impacted by the disease.”
According to the Health Department, symptoms of illness are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. People are advised to call their medical provider if they develop symptoms. Calling a medical provider before showing up at an urgent care, or emergency department allows medical professionals to prepare in advance and reduce the risk of transmission to patients and staff.
On Thursday the State of Wisconsin declared a public health emergency in response to the disease and advised communities to, among other things, limit all non-essential gatherings of 250 or more people.
Additional guidance on dealing with the coronavirus is available by clicking here: CDC INFO
