As of April 23, The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has received 51,456 negative test results and 5,052 positive test results for COVID-19. Of those who tested positive for the virus, 1,318 (26%) were hospitalized. The most up-to-date testing information can be found here.
If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19 click here to complete an online screening and receive feedback from a medical professional.
State Updates:
On Wednesday, Wisconsin experienced its largest one-day increase in confirmed coronavirus cases with 225 additional positive tests in 24 hours. The increase in positive tests coincides with additional tests being processed. According to a source, the state received 1,886 test results in 24 hours, compared to about 1,300 to 1,500 tests each day this week.
The Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions has issued a letter asking to reopen Wisconsin in an intelligent and phased manner to avoid further instability to our economy.
Governor Evers issued Emergency Order #32 providing additional details on the operation of the alternative care facility at State Fair Park in West Allis.
Governor Tony Evers, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett took part in a virtual town hall on Thursday to go in-depth on Wisconsin's "Safer at Home" order. Click here for the story.
FEMA has released it's most up to date briefing points which can be viewed here.
Education:
The WIAA has announced that the spring sports season has been cancelled.
Internet Access:
The PSC has launched a customer service phone line for people who need help locating and obtaining internet or phone service. View the release here.
Small Business Owners:
A survey of Wisconsin small businesses administered by UW-Oshkosh has released results showing that 35% of businesses surveyed shared that they will be forced to close if current conditions are in place for more than three months.
The National Restaurant Association conducted a nationwide survey of 6,500 restaurant owners to assess the impact of coronavirus. View the results here.
Unemployment:
DWD will pay retroactive unemployment insurance benefits to 154,332 individuals this week following the removal of the one-week waiting period. View the release here.
DWD is now taking applications for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUI). PUI is available to those who are self-employed, do not have sufficient work history for regular UI benefits, or have exhausted other forms of state and federal UI benefits. Click here to view the release and more information on how to apply.
Data released by the federal government shows unemployment in the U.S. is swelling to levels last seen during the Great Depression with approximately 1 in 6 Americans out of job due to the coronavirus.
The Department of Workforce Development has launched a new page on its website with information on the Federal CARES Act as well as information for regular claimants, PUA claimants, and those seeking extended unemployment benefits.
DWD reports that initial applications for unemployment insurance as of Thursday for the week of April 19, 2020 have reached 40,795. Comparable claims last year at this time for the week were 3,778. This data can be found here.
Those seeking employment are encouraged to register on JobCenterofWisconsin.com. This website continues to be updated with new job postings
If you are having difficulty reaching the Department of Workforce Development or are having problems with your UI claim, please reach out to my office using the information at the bottom of this newsletter. We are happy to help.
Agriculture:
Wisconsin DATCP Interim Secretary Randy Romanski sent a letter to USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue expressing appreciation and urging additional action. Click here to view the release and letter.
Wisconsin farm groups including the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, Wisconsin Corn Growers, and the Dairy Business Association have written a letter to Governor Evers requesting him to direct $50 million of the nearly $2 billion allocated to Wisconsin to Wisconsin farmers. Click here to view the letter.
Medical Developments:
A study looking at the effects of Hydroxychloroquine, a drug widely touted by the President for treating the coronavirus showed no benefit in an analysis of its use in U.S. veteran hospitals.
More than 21% of New York City residents tested for coronavirus antibodies returned a positive result. Across the state, 13.9% of individuals tested were positive for antibodies. View the story here.
The Centers for Disease Control have posted the following tips to protect yourself:
Wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Stay home if you are sick
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wear a facemask if you are sick
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily
More information on coronavirus from the CDC can be found here
Requests Fulfilled
The data shown above has been compiled from Governor Evers daily updates and information from the Federal Government showing that Wisconsin has received the personal protective equipment (PPE) it has requested to date. The PPE is being provided by FEMA, the Strategic National Stockpile, and Project Air Bridge.
How You Can Help
Support Local Business - Do your part to make sure your favorite spots are around when we get through this. Many restaurants are offering generous discounts and providing pick up and delivery service. Call your favorite spot to see what they are offering and tip a little more than usual as restaurants are serving fewer people. If you prefer to dine in, consider purchasing a gift card for later use. The Wisconsin Restaurant Association is compiling a list of restaurants remaining open for pick up and delivery. If you are a restaurant owner or you know of a restaurant offering these services, feel free to add their information.
Give Blood - The American Red Cross reports that they are facing a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the coronavirus outbreak. Click here to learn more about how you can donate and locate a blood drive taking place in our area.
Give to Food Banks and Delivery Services - Organizations like Feeding America and Meals on Wheels are in need of donations and volunteers to provide food to those in need during this difficult time. Charity Navigator has also compiled a list of trustworthy charities in need of resources. Click here for a list of soup kitchens and food pantries in our area.
Volunteer - Volunteers are needed to staff shelters and provide food delivery services throughout the state. United Way Wisconsin has provided a dashboard to connect volunteers with organizations looking for help. Click here to view.
Stay Well and Be Safe!
| State Capitol - Room 310 North | PO Box 8953 | Madison, WI 53708 | (608) 266-7502 | Rep.Novak@Legis.WI.Gov |
