MONROE — In December 2019 a new coronavirus, COVID -19 was detected in China and now has spread globally. The United States Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared this a public health emergency on Jan. 31 and on March 12, the State of Wisconsin declared a Public Health Emergency.  

In response to this, Green County proclaimed a state of emergency on March 17. This declaration will allow county officials the flexibility to make decisions quickly, how services are managed and to promote safety and other emergency actions that might be needed to help protect county residents.  

Under the federal declaration, which invokes the Stafford Act, state, territorial, tribal and local government entities and certain private non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for Public Assistance. Eligible expenses that are incurred in response to COVID-19 activities are overtime, materials, equipment and certain contracts. Eligible expenses will be reimbursed 70% by FEMA and 12.5% by the State of Wisconsin.

RoAnn Warden, Green County Public Health Director activated the County’s Emergency Operations Center March 12. Several agencies, including Green County Emergency Management have been providing support services for the health department. Through the EOC activities and needs for the community, first response agencies and municipalities can be coordinated. Monroe Clinic has also partnered with Green County Public Health and Green County Emergency Management to provide support and services as they are identified. 

Warden reports that as of March 18 there were no cases of COVID-19 in Green County. Warden wants everyone to practice social distancing and good hygiene. Social distancing means that you should stay at least six feet away from people, work from home instead of the office, call or use social media to contact friends. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Stay home when sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Green County Public Health’s website at https://gcpublichealth.org is a resource to get accurate guidance from state and federal agencies.