Two Confirmed Covid-19 Cases in Polk County

Polk County Health Department announced Thursday, April 9, 2020, that Polk County had its first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. This individual was exposed in a work-related setting and developed symptoms shortly afterwards. The individual and family remain under self-quarantine as requested by local, state, and federal recommendations. Public Health is identifying and contacting anyone that has been in close contact with the positive case.
On Friday, April 10 it was announced there was a second confirmed case in Polk County.
“The Polk County Health Department is working to ensure the patient is following public health recommendations,” said Brian Kaczmarski, Polk County Health Officer. Any know close contacts will be notifed and provided guidance to quarantine and monitor for signs of illness. We hope for a quick and full recovery for both of the confirmed cases in Polk County, as well as thos who are experiencing Covid-19 like symptoms. We also remindn everyone to continue practicing physical distancing guidelines and adhere to the Governor’s Safer at Home order,” he added.
“It is important that Polk County residents do not panic but continue to follow recommendations to protect themselves, others, and slow the spread of COVID-19.” said Kaczmarski. “I am confident in our community’s ability to support each other at this time. Having confirmed cases reminds us of the need to follow social distancing guidelines”
The Polk County Health Department and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) responsibilities include:
• Identifying and contacting anyone who has been in close contact with a person who has COVID-19. These people are asked to quarantine themselves for 14 days from their exposure and will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms. People with symptoms are tested for COVID-19.
• Performing follow-up testing for individuals who test positive to determine when a person can be released from isolation.
• Providing guidance to clinicians regarding testing.
• Preparing Wisconsin for community spread of COVID-19.
Polk County Health Department is keeping track of these outbreaks. “We are working with our local, state, and federal partners to deal quickly and effectively when people have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been around people who have been infected with the coronavirus.”
The Health Department wants everyone to know that while the risk of getting the illness remains low, people should follow simple steps to avoid getting sick, including:
• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Stay home when sick.
• Practice social distancing
• Avoid large public gatherings and crowds.
“Polk County Health Department is ready to deal with the potential for additional cases. We will continue to work with DHS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and our local partners to make sure our community remains safe and healthy,” said Kaczmarski.