COVID-19 in Wisconsin: State reports new 7-day average highs in daily cases, test positivity rate

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(FOX 9) - The state of Wisconsin reached new highs in its weekly average percent positive rate and case increases Monday for COVID-19.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the rolling 7-day average percent positive rate topped 30 percent for the first time Monday while the 7-day case increase average reached 4,463, another new high.

The 7-day death increase average reached a high of 38 Sunday and was down to 37 Monday after only three new deaths were reported.

The state also says 85 percent of COVID-19 hospital beds are filled in the state, leaving 1,618 available. There are currently 343 ICU COVID-19 patients in the state and 1,512 total COVID-19 patients statewide.

COVID-19 infections can often go undetected and be asymptomatic, laboratory-confirmed tests only represent a fraction of actual COVID-19 cases. A study from the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that actual cases in some instances were six to 24 times greater than reported cases.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced an indoor mask mandate for people over the age of 5, which he extended Sept. 22. Face coverings while indoors except at a private residence have been required since Aug. 1.

Evers extended the state's stay-at-home order until May 26, but on May 13, the state Supreme Court blocked the extension, effectively opening all establishments in the state. Hours later, images emerged of packed bars across the state, leading the Governor to call his state "The Wild West." Evers' original "Safer at Home" order went into effect on March 25.

On April 4, President Donald Trump approved a disaster declaration for Wisconsin due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This declaration allows for federal funding to be allocated to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that were impacted by the virus.

For more information, go to the state health department's website.

Tips on washing your hands to reduce spreading germs

Amid the coronavirus outbreak, health officials are advising people to be sure to wash your hands. Follow these tips to help reduce the spread.

If you have questions or immediate needs related to COVID-19, you can Text COVID19 to 211-211, visit 211Wisconsin.org or call 211. Call volumes are high, so officials are asking people to be patient and try to use the text or online options first.

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of COVID-19, health officials advise you to call your health care provider.