County reports third COVID-related death

Metro Wire Staff

The Portage County Division of Public Health on Thursday reported the third death in the county related to COVID-19.

The news comes about one week following the last COVID-related death on Sept. 4. No details about the victim were released.  

To date, 824 people in Portage Co. have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and there have been
1,193 deaths in Wisconsin. Portage Co. reported its first COVID-related death on Aug 22. That patient was described only as “an elderly resident” who died from complications due to the novel coronavirus infection.

“We are saddened by the loss of another community member,” said County Health Officer Gary Garske. “I, along with our community, extend our sympathies to their loved ones.”

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 following Executive Order #1 Masking
Mandate by 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].