The news about the new coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to develop and there is concern about how this will impact our community.
WHAT IT IS: COVID-19 is a new respiratory virus that was first identified in China in December 2019 and has now spread to other countries including the U.S. The symptoms are similar to cold and influenza – fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
At this time, we have had no cases of COVID-19 in Eau Claire County and only one case in Wisconsin at the beginning of February.
We have not seen spread of the illness in Eau Claire or Wisconsin and the risk to residents is currently low. It is, however, a rapidly changing situation.
To protect yourself from sickness, practice everyday health habits.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
• Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home from work if you are sick. If your children are sick, keep them home from school or daycare. Avoid others who may be sick.
