LCO Health's Incident Commander Says 18 Negative Results of 23 Tested

By LCDR Summer Pearson,

USPHS, MHA, MLS (ASCP)

Laboratory Manager

Lac Courte Oreilles Community Health Center

As of April 3, 2020, we have tested 23 people to date at the Lac Courte Oreilles Community Health Center. Of those tested, 18 have had negative results (do not have the virus). We still have five patients waiting on test results. When tested, each patient is given information on how to self-isolate and what to do if their symptoms worsen. Both Sawyer County and the LCO Clinic have been following up with patients and letting them know of their test results as soon as they are available.

To date, we have not had any positive test results in our county and we need to continue to adhere to guidelines for personal distancing and staying at home as much as possible to keep the virus at bay.

If you have symptoms of Coronavirus (fever or cough or shortness of breath) please contact the hotline number 715-934-4518 and they will set you up with an appointment for testing. If your symptoms are severe and you need assistance immediately, please call 911.

Some helpful information:

How long does the virus survive on surfaces? “It is not certain how long the virus that causes COVID-19 survives on surfaces, but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses. Studies suggest that coronaviruses (including preliminary information on the COVID-19 virus) may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days. This may vary under different conditions (e.g. type of surface, temperature or humidity of the environment).

If you think a surface may be infected, clean it with simple disinfectant to kill the virus and protect yourself and others. Clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose. (World Health Organization)