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Posted 5/22/2020 by krauter-egge@co.wood.wi.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

05/22/20

CONTACT: Susan Kunferman, Wood County Health Department Director/Health Officer

(715) 421-8911

First COVID-19 Death in Wood County

Wisconsin Rapids, WI – One person has died in Wood County of complications surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19), health officials confirmed today. A person in their 30’s with no underlying health conditions, died on May 22. The death is the first in Wood County associated with COVID-19.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our community members,” said Susan Kunferman, Health Officer and Director for the Wood County Health Department.  “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones.”

To date, nine people in Wood County and over 13,885 people in Wisconsin have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and there have been 485 deaths in Wisconsin. 

Health officials expect the number of confirmed cases to rise in the coming weeks with the safer at home order no longer in place. Testing and tracing efforts have been ramped up locally and statewide in an effort to battle the spread of the disease.

“We strongly encourage community members to stay home unless activities are essential. In doing so, you’re not only helping protect yourself, but also your family, friends, neighbors, and fellow community members,” Kunferman said.

If you have questions or immediate needs related to COVID-19, call 2-1-1 or text COVID-19 to 211-211. For up-to-date information, please visit the Wood County Health Department website and Facebook page.

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