By City Times staff

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wood County Health Department is alerting county residents to the possibility of community spread.

“Although Wood County continues to hold steady at two confirmed COVID-19 cases, it can be assumed there is community spread. There are not enough resources to do widespread testing for the virus; there are likely unidentified positive cases,” a department release said.

The term community spread means a person’s disease cannot be traced to a specific individual or source.

“If you leave your house and go into a public place, assume you will come into contact with someone carrying the virus,” said Susan Kunferman, Wood County Health Department Director and Health Officer. “Staying home is the only way we can slow the spread of the virus, we all have to make big sacrifices for a little while; we will get through this.”

With Governor Evers’ Safer at Home order is in place, only essential businesses may remain open.

“Travel must be restricted to travel to the essential business where you work or for an essential reason. Essential reasons include shopping for food (including pet food), medical supplies, prescriptions and other necessities. Getting essentials should be happening once per week, by one person in your household. If you are a single-parent household, do your best to plan ahead to limit the trips you must take with your children,” the release adds.

“Failure to abide by the Governor’s order is a criminal offense under §252.25 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Law enforcement will investigate any observed or reported violations of the order. In cases where persons do not comply with the order, law enforcement has the option of issuing a citation under a Wood County ordinance, which carries a forfeiture of $200.50. For serious or continued violations, a criminal arrest can be made under the above state statute.”

”The health and the safety of our community is our highest priority,” Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker stated. “To keep our community safe you need to follow the Safer at Home order and limit your outings. As we continue to monitor and get calls and emails about non-essential activities happening in Wood County, we will be placing more emphasis on enforcement in order to protect people during this serious health crisis. Please obey this order; it will save lives.”

“According to projections, Wisconsin will reach its peak death rate around April 26 with 25 deaths per day,” said Susan Kunferman, Wood County Health Department Director and Health Officer. “Case numbers and deaths will continue to rise and orders are meant to be followed. We are working closely with local law enforcement to determine enforcement plans. Do your part and stay home.”

Remember to continue to check-in with those most vulnerable in our communities, especially anyone who may be isolated during this time.