As we navigate through the ever-changing COVID environment, we will provide information on developments, regulations, statistics, and programs surrounding the outbreak.

Central Wisconsin county numbers

As of May 9, central Wisconsin county numbers were: Adams – positive cases, 4; negative cases, 259; deaths, 1; case fatality percentage, 25. Clark – positive cases, 24; negative cases, 342; deaths, 4; case fatality percentage, 17. Marathon – positive cases, 24; negative cases, 1,106; deaths, 1; case fatality percentage, 4.  Portage – positive cases, 7; negative cases, 538; deaths, 0; case fatality percentage, 0.  Wood – positive cases, 2; negative cases, 716; deaths, 0; case fatality percentage, 0.

Tom Wood image.

Tom Wood image.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention gives the following tips for cleaning and disinfecting your home.

Clean

Wear reusable or disposable gloves for routine cleaning and disinfection.

Clean surfaces using soap and water, then use disinfectant.

Cleaning with soap and water reduces the number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces.

Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include: tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

Disinfect

Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectant. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many products recommend keeping surface wet for a period of time, wearing gloves, and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product

Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface. Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Some bleaches, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing or for whitening, may not be suitable for disinfection.

Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronavirus when properly diluted. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.

To make a bleach solution, mix: one-third cup bleach per gallon of water or four teaspoons bleach per quart of water.

Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours.

Alcohol solutions with at least 70 percent alcohol may also be used.

Soft surfaces

For soft surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, clean the surface using soap and water or with cleaners appropriate for use on these surfaces.

Launder items, if possible, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely; or disinfect with an EPA-registered household disinfectant.

Vacuum as usual.

Electronics

For electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, and remote controls, consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics. Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and disinfecting.

If no guidance, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70 percent alcohol. Dry surface thoroughly.

Laundry

For clothing, towels, linens and other items, launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

Wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry from a person who is sick. Dirty laundry from a person who is sick can be washed with other people’s items.

Do not shake dirty laundry. Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance above for surfaces. Remove gloves, and wash hands right away.

Clean hands often

Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Always wash immediately after removing gloves and after contact with a person who is sick.

If soap and water are not readily available and hands are not visibly dirty, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.