By Shereen Siewert

MARATHON COUNTY – One person has died in Marathon County of complications surrounding the coronavirus, health officials confirmed Saturday.

The victim, who was elderly, died on April 11. The death is the first in Marathon County associated with COVID-19.

“We are saddened by the loss of one of our community members,” said Joan Theurer, health officer with the Marathon County Health Department. ” I along with our community extend our sympathies to their loved ones.”

To date, over 3,000 people in Wisconsin have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and there have been at least 129 deaths in Wisconsin.

Health officials expect the number of confirmed cases to rise in the coming weeks as they ramp up testing and tracing efforts statewide in an effort to battle the spread of the disease.

Until late this week, only the top two tiers of patients – those most critical – saw testing processed. After the number of active labs in Wisconsin grew from two to 20, multiplying daily test capacity statewide, health officials announced testing will expand to all patients who are recommended for testing by a physician.

“We strongly encourage community members to stay home unless activities are essential. In doing so, you’re not only helping protect yourself, but also your family, friends, neighbors, and fellow community members,” Theurer said.

Story courtesy of Wausau Pilot & Review.