Governor Tony Evers has ordered a scaling down of all child care settings in the state amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Evers announced the scaling down on Wednesday, restricting the size of child care facilities across the state. Centers now may not operate with more than 10 staff members present at one time and more than 50 children present at one time.
The restriction goes into effect at 8 a.m. on March 19.
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“Child care is an essential service for many of the folks working on the front lines to provide healthcare and vital services to our communities during the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Gov. Evers. “This is another step forward to ensure that service continues, while protecting our child care providers who are going above and beyond their regular duties to support our families, communities, and state.”
Evers said those using child care who can keep their kids at home should do so.
As of Wednesday afternoon, there are 108 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wisconsin.
Milwaukee County has the most cases, with 47 confirmed.
| Wisconsin County | Total Cases as of 3/18/2020 |
|---|---|
| Pierce | 1 |
| La Crosse | 1 |
| Kenosha* | 4 |
| Milwaukee* | 47 |
| Sheboygan | 4 |
| Washington | 2 |
| Fond du Lac | 12 |
| Outagamie | 1 |
| Ozaukee | 1 |
| Racine | 1 |
| Dane* | 23 |
| Brown | 1 |
| Walworth | 1 |
| Wood | 1 |
| Winnebago | 3 |
| Waukesha | 5 |
| Total | 108 |
* An asterisk indicates community spread has been identified.
Health officials say residents should take simple steps to help prevent the spread of coronavirus:
- Frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and water.
- Covering coughs and sneezes.
- Avoiding touching your face.
- Staying home when sick.