In light of two confirmed cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Fond du Lac County, the Fond du Lac County Public Health department and Agnesian HealthCare are collaborating to help individuals within the community who have concerns about potential exposure and symptoms.
Starting on Thursday, March 12 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., concerned individuals can call (844) 225-0147 for more direction from Public Health officials. A screening location is established. Individuals who have been screened by Public Health and determined in need of testing will be directed to the testing site. Individuals who are concerned they may have symptoms are asked to contact this number before arriving in-person at any health care facility, including urgent care or emergency department. “The Fond du Lac Public Health Department and Agnesian HealthCare have comprehensive plans and protocols in place for caring for respiratory illnesses like this,” according to Kim Mueller, Fond du Lac County Public Health officer. “As this is an illness that can be passed from person to person, all impacted patients have been placed in isolation and all caregivers are following CDC guidelines in using protective equipment, such as respirator masks, gloves and gowns, to prevent spread of the virus. As such, there is minimal risk of infection for other patients and staff.”
All efforts are being given to ensuring that community needs are being met and appropriate steps are being made to
limit exposure. Signs and symptoms of COVID-19, which can appear two to 14 days after exposure, include: fever, cough,
difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. “There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19,” Mueller says. “It’s important for individuals to wash their hands, cover
their cough, and stay home from work or school if they’re sick.”
