Health officials report easing of virus ‘burden’ in Fredonia

A week after the number of Covid-19 cases in the Fredonia area neared what health officials called a critical level, potentially threatening the opening of school this week,   the virus’ “burden” on the area retreated, according to health department data.

The burden, measured as a running number of cases per 100,000 population over the previous two weeks, dipped from a high of  348.2 on Monday, Aug. 24, to 248.5 on Monday, Aug. 31, according to the Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department website. 

On Tuesday, the number ticked upward to 266.3.

The department says a rate of 350 cases per 100,000 people puts the area in the “critical” category. 

Under those conditions, the department recommends schools go to 100% remote learning, conceding that “decisions about learning models should not be based solely on this data,” according to its “Covid-19 decision-making framework for schools” report.

Reaching a critical stage would threaten the Northern Ozaukee School District’s plan to conduct in-person schooling five days a week, offering a remote option for families that desire it.

Officials have said about 10% of families have opted to attend classes remotely.

Officials said there are no plans to alter the district’s decision to hold in-person school, which began this week, noting that no children or school staff have tested positive and that the health department has not contacted the school to trace any cases.

“Overall, the school year got off to a great start,” Karrels said Wednesday. “We did not have any contacts from the health department and have put in place a variety of safety protocols to keep our students and staff safe.”

Health officials blamed the rise on group activities held in August, such as weddings and family gatherings, but pointed to no specific activities.

Officials also noted that in a small community like Fredonia, an outbreak at a workplace or within a family could easily skew the numbers.

Countywide, the burden has continued to drop, from 220.8 on Aug. 19 to 130.4 on Monday and 140.1 on Tuesday.