County: COVID-related death toll now numbers six

Metro Wire Staff

The Portage County Division of Public Health on Tuesday reported two additional county residents have died due to complications from COVID-19.

The Sept. 29 announcement brings the number of fatalities of Portage Co. residents to six.

“We are saddened by the loss of two more community members,” County Health Officer Gary Garske said in a prepared email statement. “I, along with our public health team and the entire community, extend our sympathies to their loved ones.”

A message seeking additional information about the most recent fatalities, including whether the victims had underlying health issues, were not immediately returned. 

To date, 1,481 people in Portage County have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and there have been 1,300 deaths in Wisconsin.

COVID-19 can cause serious health complications and death, especially among older adults and
people with chronic health conditions. Garske said it’s important to remember COVID-19 can be spread by people who are experiencing no symptoms.

“We strongly encourage community members to continue wearing a mask in public and keep at least six feet apart when you leave your home,” Garske said in an email. “In doing so, you’re not only helping protect yourself, but also your family, friends, neighbors, and fellow community members.”

For more Portage County data, visit the dashboard at this link: https://bit.ly/3bmQOjD

Anyone with questions can contact the county health department at 715.345.5907 or [email protected].