Wisconsin sees spike in COVID-19 cases with single-day high of 733 new reports

(FOX 9) - Wisconsin has set a new single-day high for positive COVID-19, as health officials report 733 new positive tests on Friday.

The record total comes two days after the state set another single-day high with 599 new cases on Wednesday. It also comes as testing has plateaued.

Friday, the Wisconsin Department of Health also reported 18 new deaths. Total hospitals for COVID-19 in Wisconsin over the pandemic also crept towards 2,500.

Currently, the state reports 423 are hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 cases and 145 are in the ICU.

Gov. Tony Evers extended the state's stay-at-home order until May 26, but on May 13, the state Supreme Court blocked the extension, effecively 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 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.

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.

To prevent illness, wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, clean frequently touched surfaces every day and stay home when you are sick.