Second COVID-19 Case Reported in Wood County

Wisconsin Rapids, WI – Today the Wood County Health Department received notification of a second individual diagnosed with COVID-19. The individual is in their 20’s and resides in South Wood County.

This individual had traveled outside of the United States. They followed recommendations for self-isolation while awaiting test results and continue to remain isolated at home.
Please respect the privacy of persons being testing for COVID-19. In the United States, HIPAA refers to a law designed to provide privacy standards to protect patients’ medical records and other health information provided to health plans, healthcare providers, and health departments. Details about COVID19 cases are confidential.

In spite of restrictions on groups, the number of people infected with COVID-19 continues to grow.

Physical distancing—the practice of keeping at least 6 feet apart from others and avoiding direct physical contact—is proving the only effective means of slowing the rate of infection. Staying home when it is not essential to leave, is extremely important. Please be smart- do not leave your home when it is not necessary.

During the Safer at Home order it is important to remember both employees and employers have rights.

The U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, provides information on common issues employers and employees are facing due to COVID-19. For more information visit
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act will help American businesses with fewer than 500 employees by giving funds to provide employees with paid leave, either for the employee’s own health needs or to care for family members. The legislation will ensure that workers are not forced to choose between their paychecks and the public health measures needed to combat the virus while at the same time reimbursing businesses.

For general questions about COVID-19 please call 2-1-1. For up-to-date information please visit the Wood County Health Department website and Facebook.