PIERCE COUNTY (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Pierce County Public Health Department announced today that a second person has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus.
The person was exposed while traveling within the U.S. and is isolated at home, according to a press release from DHS.
County health officials are working to determine people who have been in contact with the patient to isolate or quarantine people and test those who are exhibiting symptoms.
Officials will hold a media briefing Tuesday to answer further questions, DHS said.
"With a second confirmed case in our state we continue to urge state residents to take precautions to avoid illness," said State Health Officer Jeanne Ayers. "As guidance is evolving, it's important for people to monitor the DHS and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for the latest information on COVID-19."
Symptoms of COVID-19 include a cough, shortness of breath and fever. In the most severe cases, pneumonia can develop. Most cases are mild, presenting similarly to a common cold.
There is no cure or vaccine for the disease.
To prevent contracting the disease, DHS recommends washing hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. People should also avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. More prevention information is available on the DHS' webpage set up for the disease.
The first confirmed Wisconsin case of COVID-19 came in Dane County. That person has since recovered.
More at WKOW 27 News