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New DHS data shows more COVID-19 cases in younger people

Posted at 6:22 PM, Sep 04, 2020
and last updated 2020-09-04 19:22:53-04

WISCONSIN (NBC 26) — State health officials said new data collected shows younger people in the 18 to 34 age range have more confirmed cases of COVID-19 and higher rates of illness across Wisconsin.

The Department of Health Services (DHS) released a new data dashboard that displays confirmed COVID-19 cases by age group. Staff said this allows people to better understand how the virus is affecting populations in Wisconsin.

“This dashboard provides information younger Wisconsinites, and everyone in our state, can use to help box in this virus,” said DHS Secretary-designee Andrea Palm, “We are counting on everyone to understand COVID-19 is still spreading in our state, and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their communities. We encourage everyone, regardless of age but particularly for those younger Wisconsinites, to be safe should they choose to spend time with people outside of their homes.”

DHS said two graphs are displayed on the new dashboard. First, the graph shows the number of COVID-19 cases in each age group by week. Then, as cumulative totals that show all cases in each age group over time. Users can toggle the graphs to display either number or rate. Number shows total COVID-19 cases for each age group. Rate accounts for differences in how each age group makes up the population and provides a more 'apples to apples' comparison.

Bases on interviews conducted by public health officials, people in the 18 to 34 age range report they are engaging in behaviors that put them more at risk for COVID-19. Interviewers said this included attending social gathering without staying at least six feet apart and not wearing masks.

State health officials urge Wisconsinites of any age to continue to limit social gatherings, practice social distancing, wear a mask when appropriate, and wash hands often.

Click here to visit the DHS website for more information on COVID-19 in Wisconsin.