For the Wausau Times

MARATHON COUNTY – On Oct. 2, the Marathon County Health Department held their sixth community testing event at Northcentral Technical College with the support of the Wisconsin National Guard. A total of 735 tests were conducted and 62 new positive cases were identified from the event.

Over the past few weeks, Marathon County has experienced a surge in positive cases.

“Last week we had 498 new cases,” stated Joan Theurer, Marathon County health officer. “To put this in perspective, it took 18 weeks from the first reported case in mid-March to July 27 to reach 499 cases.”

Residents who have symptoms were told to stay home while waiting their results, and limit contact with others as much as possible.

Test results are delivered by phone or over email to attendees within five to seven days. If attendees have been waiting more than seven days, missed the call with their results, or if they need a copy of them, they are directed to call the Wisconsin COVID-19 Results Line at 866-419-6988.

“We need to act now to enable children to learn in person and keep businesses open,” added Theurer. “The COVID19 virus is widespread in our county and all ages are being impacted. The power to get control of this virus lies with each of us.”

“The community is encouraged to continue to take steps to protect themselves and others, including washing your hands, watching your distance, wearing a mask, staying home if you’re sick or were in contact with someone with COVID-19, limiting your trips outside the home as much as possible, and avoiding gatherings of all sizes. If you do develop symptoms, talk to your provider about testing,” a department release said.

For more information, visit  www.co.marathon.wi.us/Departments/HealthDepartment/COVID19.aspx or follow “MarathonCountyHealthDepartment” on Facebook.