STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — A Central Wisconsin county has issued a new advisory amid rising COVID-19 cases.
Portage County Health Officer Gary Garske has issued a mask advisory for the county. The advisory follows the most recent changes to CDC and DHS recommendations for slowing the spread of COVID-19 for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. The advisory states that all individuals should wear masks in enclosed spaces, along with encouraging social distancing.
Portage County is now considered to have substantial community transmission of COVID-19 as cases have risen in the area. The county is at 48.4% of the population being fully vaccinated as of July 30th. The goal for vaccine administration for COVID-19 in Portage County is to have at least 70% of the entire population fully vaccinated.
The press release from the County says, “Vaccination remains our strongest tool in tackling COVID-19. The Division of Public Health is grateful for those who have already chosen to get vaccinated. We are hopeful that this guidance will encourage others to get vaccinated in order to better protect our friends, family members, and our community from COVID-19.”
The advisory is effective immediately and will be reviewed in 60 days.