COVID-19 Wisconsin update
STAR JOURNAL/MMC REPORT
As we navigate through the ever-changing COVID environment, we will provide information on developments, regulations, statistics, and programs surrounding the outbreak.
As of April 20, northern Wisconsin counties are reporting:
Oneida — six positive tests, 221 negative tests, zero deaths;
Vilas — four positive tests, 92 negative tests, zero deaths;
Forest – zero positive tests, 37 negative tests, zero deaths;
Florence — two positive tests, 14 negative tests, zero deaths;
Price — one positive test, 49 negative tests, zero deaths;
Iron — two positive tests, 27 negative tests, one death;
Lincoln — zero positive tests, 132 negative tests, zero deaths;
Langlade — zero positive tests, 70 negative tests, zero deaths
In Wisconsin:
4,499 positive tests (+153 from 4/19/20), 46,603 negative tests (+1,280 from 4/19/20), 230 deaths (+10 from 4/19/20), 1,211 hospitalizations (+21 from 4/19/20 or 27%)
Scammers are working to take advantage of the fears surrounding COVID-19. Here are a few tips from the Federal Trade Commission:
Tips to avoid scams
Don’t respond to texts, emails, or calls about checks from the government.
Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. There are no products proven to treat or prevent COVID-19 at this time. Scammers are selling products to treat or prevent COVID-19 without proof that they work.
Hang up on robocalls. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from low-priced health insurance to work-at-home schemes. Scammers use illegal sales call to get your money and your personal information.
Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or WHO. Use sites like coronavirus.gov and usa.gov/coronavirus to get the latest information. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know.
Do your homework when it comes to donations. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. Get tips on donating wisely at ftc.gov/charity.
What the FTC is doing
The FTC and FDA have jointly issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products, claiming they can treat or prevent the coronavirus. The products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver.
The FTC says the companies have no evidence to back up their claims — as required by law. The FDA says there are no approved vaccines, drugs or investigatory products currently available to treat or prevent the virus.
For more information, visit www.consumer.ftc.gov.
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