What you should know about COVID-19

What is COVID-19?
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a virus strain that began to spread in people in December 2019.COVID-19 is a new (novel) respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. COVID-19 is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold. Formerly, this disease was referred to as "2019 novel coronavirus" or "2019-nCoV."

How is COVID-19 spread?
COVID-19 is typically spread to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes because the virus is found in droplets from the throat and nose. This is similar to how influenza is spread. When someone coughs or sneezes, other people near them can breathe in those droplets. The virus can also spread when an infected person touches an object (such as a common surface) followed by another person touching it then their mouth, face, or eyes.
Most Common Symptoms: Fever, Dry cough, Tiredness
Less Common Symptoms: Aches and pains, Sore throat, Diarrhea, Conjunctivitis, Headache, Loss of taste or smell
Serious Symptoms: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, Chest pain or pressure, Loss of speech or movement 

 

 Isolation Guidance 
   

Resources

Data & Additional Information

  • Wisconsin COVID-19 Coronavirus Information - New site dedicated to providing timely WI COVID-19 information.
  • DHS Health Alert Network (HAN) is now active. Health care providers and other officials engaged in the COVID-19 response have been automatically subscribed to the HAN. Individuals can subscribe and unsubscribe using their preferred email address here.
  • Have you heard rumors about coronavirus? Click HERE for FEMA's Coronavirus Rumor Control.

Cleaning and Disinfection

  • How do I clean and disinfect my home? Click HERE for more information.

Employment Issues

Food Pantries & Donations

Mental Health Support

  • COPE Services Hotline: 262-377-2673
  • IMPACT 2-11 (dial 2-1-1)
  • Crisis Text Line: Text MHA to 741 741 and you will be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor. 
  • SAMHSA Disaster Helpline
    • Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746
    • Distress Line: 1-800-985-5990

Other

Prevent the Spread of Illness

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

What can we do?

  • Only leave your home when it is necessary
  • When out in public, wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Cover your cough or sneeze
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Questions? Email us.

Email covid19@washozwi.gov with your questions.
If you'd like to report a complaint, please email: covidcomplaints@washozwi.gov. 

COVID-19 and Stigma

Diseases can make anyone sick regardless of race, ethnicity, age.

People of Asian descent, including Chinese Americans, are not more likely to get COVID-19 than any other American. People who have traveled to places where many people have gotten sick with COVID-19 may be monitored by health officials to protect their health and the health of other people in the community. Older adults and people with chronic medical conditions may be at increased risk for severe disease.

Key Messages

  • You are safer at home.
  • Wear a face mask in indoor public spaces.
  • Younger people, and particularly those who are 18 to 30 years old, aren’t immune to COVID-19. Anyone can contract COVID-19. So it's important for everyone, including young and healthy people, to practice social distancing.
  • Together we can make a difference in the fight against COVID-19. 
    • Stay home if you can and especially if you are sick. 
    • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
    • Practice social distancing. Please keep six feet between people and avoid direct physical contact. Wear a cloth face mask when interacting with others or in public spaces such as the grocery store. 
  • We all need to work together to flatten the curve and protect the capacity of the health care system to serve those who will suffer with the most severe disease from COVID-19. 

Orders of the Health Officer