Walworth County Reports First Death Attributable to COVID-19 (Updated)

A Walworth County resident has died due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, per a press release on April 12. The patient is an adult in their 80’s. UPDATED: In response to a question from the Banner, Carlo Nevicosi, Deputy Director of Walworth County HHS, indicated that “The case was laboratory-confirmed for COVID-19.”

“It is with great sadness that I confirm that a Walworth County resident has passed away due to COVID-19”, said Elizabeth Aldred, Health and Human Services (HHS) Director. “This is a sad day for Walworth County. Our entire community feels the weight of this loss.”

The release did not indicate where the individual had lived. Walworth County HHS recently indicated that COVID-19 has been confirmed or suspected in every major community in the county. In a telephone conversation with a Banner staff member on April 7, Carlo Nevicosi, Deputy Director of the Walworth County Department of Health & Human Services, confirmed that there are “confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19” in Whitewater. Mr. Nevicosi stated that he was not at that time authorized to release any further information regarding the nature of those cases.

The Walworth County Division of Public Health continues to monitor the spread of the disease and implement practices to reduce transmission.

“We know that many Walworth County residents are concerned about what impact this virus may have on themselves and their loved ones. This is a rapidly evolving public health event that we are taking very seriously” added Aldred. “This is a time to remind everyone of the importance of taking precautions to protect those at higher risk, especially the elderly and people with serious underlying health conditions.”

To reduce risk of getting sick, Public Health advises everyone to follow these simple steps:

  • Following the Safer at Home Order
  • Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Stay home when sick.

This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information, visit the CDC’s website or the DHS website.

For the latest information about COVID-19 in Walworth County, visit:

https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/856/COVID-19.

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