Weekly Update: March 21, 2022
“Thank You: Moving Forward Together” Launches at the Alliant Energy Center
 On March 14, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services kicked off its statewide “Thank You: Moving Forward Together” tour in Madison at the Alliant Energy Center. The agency is traveling throughout the state to meet with representatives from local health departments, tribal health clinics, healthcare facilities, and community partners to offer gratitude for their hard work throughout the COVID-19 response.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers spoke at the kickoff event, saying in part: “From healthcare workers to the Wisconsin National Guard members, local public health officers, tribal health directors, first responders, agency staff, community-based organizations, front desk staff, janitors, and so many others, guess what, you saved lives. Think about that. You are heroes of this pandemic.”
Wisconsinites can participate by recognizing people involved in the COVID-19 response by submitting a note of appreciation on the DHS website. DHS will share these messages on the website and social media platforms throughout the duration of the tour.
Spring Break COVID-19 Safety
 The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) encourages Wisconsinites to take precautions if they travel for spring break. Although COVID-19 cases are declining, traveling increases an individual’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and DHS recommend Wisconsinites delay their travel plans until they are up to date on COVID-19 vaccines. If Wisconsinites do travel, DHS recommends they know the COVID-19 Community Level of their destination and follow the appropriate precautions. Wisconsinites should continue to practice layered prevention strategies as recommended to stay safe, protect others, and reduce strain on health care systems. Wisconsinites should not travel if they: ·
- Have symptoms of COVID-19.
- Have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not completed their isolation period.
- Have recently been exposed to COVID-19 and are recommended to quarantine.
- Are awaiting COVID-19 test results.
Mask wearing is still required on all forms of public U.S transportation. Wisconsinites are also responsible for knowing and complying with all airline and destination requirements. We urge all Wisconsinites to continue use a combination of COVID-19 prevention strategies, even while traveling, that will allow us to continue to keep our communities safe and healthy.
DHS Confirms Three Pediatric Influenza-Associated Deaths
DHS has confirmed the deaths of three children under the age of 18 due to complications from influenza. While the flu is among the most common respiratory illnesses in the U.S., it can be serious. To protect yourself and those around you, health officials recommend taking steps to:
- Get vaccinated: Flu vaccine is recommended for all individuals over 6 months of age. It can help prevent the flu or reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Prevent the spread: The flu virus is spread through the air when someone who is sick coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and stay home if experiencing symptoms.
If you are at risk for complications, or symptoms persist or worsen, contact your health care provider.
Keeping Wisconsin Kids Healthy
Children and teens are at risk for serious COVID-19 illness and can spread the virus to others—even if they don’t have symptoms. But with the COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 and up and clear information for parents and guardians, you can protect the kids in your life wherever they live, play, and learn. Because COVID-19 is still spreading in our communities, all of us have a role to play in keeping Wisconsin children healthy and safe. For resources to support your family’s health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, including guidance for staying safe in school, mental health resources for children and families, and up-to-date information on Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), visit the COVID-19: Healthy Kids page.
Women’s History Month Spotlight:
 Women’s History Month has been observed annually in March since 1987 to celebrate women’s contributions to history, culture, and society in the United States. This year’s theme, chosen by the National Women’s History Alliance, is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” This theme not only honors the tireless work of caregivers and frontline workers during the pandemic, but also celebrates women of all backgrounds who have provided compassionate healing and hope for the betterment of patients, friends, and family.
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