Wisconsin pandemic continues to grow out of control

The pandemic in Wisconsin continues to grow out of control. Today 5278 new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in the state, which is a new record, surpassing the previous one of 5268 four days ago. There is no good news elsewhere, as there are 374 new hospitalizations reported since yesterday and 59 more deaths.

Dunn County reports 1177 confirmed cases today, an increase of 47 in the last 24 hours. Eau Claire County reports 3845 confirmed cases, an increase of 108. In Chippewa County, there have now been 1939 reported cases, an increase of 74. 

Hospitals in many parts of the state are having difficulty dealing with the influx of COVID-19 patients, and recently the Mayo system in our area has again suspended voluntary and routine procedures. 

The continuing pandemic expansion will be perhaps the most compelling issue in next week's election, both on the presidential and local levels as both parties continue to have very different viewpoints on the pandemic, what steps should be taken, and if the current measures are sufficient.