Wisconsin Has 989 Confirmed Coronavirus Cases

MILWAUKEE, WI — There are now 989 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, in Wisconsin, the state health department announced Saturday. Thirteen Wisconsin residents have died due to complications from the virus.

Milwaukee County leads the state in COVID-19 cases, with 489 confirmed infections. Five people in the county have died due to complications from the virus. Gov. Tony Evers said the northwest side of Milwaukee has been hit particularly hard. He described the situation in the city as a "crisis within a crisis."

On Friday, Evers issued an executive order simplifying medical license renewal and encouraging retired doctors and nurses to re-enter practice to aid during the crisis. Nursing students close to graduation will also be wrapped into Wisconsin's response to the pandemic, with the state easing clinical education requirements.

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“Our healthcare professionals are on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis, and it is critical that we maximize the size of our work force and eliminate unnecessary barriers so we can effectively meet the demand for care,” said Evers. “Remember, while our health systems respond to COVID-19, they also must continue to care for patients with other conditions and issues, such as cancer or accidental injury, that require ongoing or immediate attention. This action will ensure that more Wisconsinites get the care they need, when they need it.”

The easing of licensing renewals applies to following healthcare services: nurses, physicians, physician assistants, pharmacists, physical therapists, chiropractors, dentists, psychologists, counselors, and radiographers.

“We have heard from many providers who are eager to return to practice and help respond to the COVID-19 crisis. Other providers want the flexibility to go where the need is greatest and respond as fully and efficiently as possible,” said Department of Safety and Professional ServicesSecretary-designee Dawn Crim. “This order will better position Wisconsin’s healthcare workforce to deal with this public health emergency.”