As we navigate through the ever-changing COVID environment, we will provide information on developments, regulations, statistics, and programs surrounding the outbreak.

Central Wisconsin county numbers

As of April 20, central Wisconsin county numbers were: Adams – positive cases, 4; negative cases, 108; deaths, 1. Clark – positive cases, 16; negative cases, 142; deaths, 1. Marathon – positive cases, 17; negative cases, 493; deaths, 1. Portage – positive cases, 4; negative cases, 219; deaths, 0. Wood – positive cases, 2; negative cases, 316; deaths, 0.

Wisconsin COVID numbers as of April 20, according to state DHS numbers. Tom Wood image.

Tips to avoid scams

Scammers are working to take advantage of the fears surrounding COVID-19. Here are a few tips from the Federal Trade Commission:

Don’t respond to texts, emails, or calls about checks from the government.

Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. There are no products proven to treat or prevent COVID-19 at this time. Scammers are selling products to treat or prevent COVID-19 without proof that they work.

Hang up on robocalls. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from low-priced health insurance to work-at-home schemes. Scammers use illegal sales calls to get your money and your personal information.

Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or WHO. Use sites like coronavirus.gov and usa.gov/coronavirus to get the latest information. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know.

Do your homework when it comes to donations. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. Get tips on donating wisely at ftc.gov/charity.

What the FTC is doing

The FTC and FDA have jointly issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products, claiming they can treat or prevent the Coronavirus. The products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver.

The FTC says the companies have no evidence to back up their claims — as required by law. The FDA says there are no approved vaccines, drugs or investigational products currently available to treat or prevent the virus.

For more information, visit www.consumer.ftc.gov.