Stockbridge-Munsee member succumbs to COVID

The Stockbridge-Munsee tribal government has reported that one of its members has died due to complications of COVID-19. No details of the victim were released. If the individual was a Shawano County resident, he or she would be the first in Shawano County to be linked to the disease.

“With heavy hearts, we share that a member of our community has lost their life due to complications from COVID-19. We mourn with their family and friends and send them our deepest sympathy,” the tribal government website reports.

While not specifically identifying the deceased person, the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department announced that Shawano County is reporting its first death to COVID-19.

“With this unfortunate news, we would like to remind everyone to continue to practice precautions against COVID-19,” Vicki Dantoin, Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department health officer said in a press release Monday. “Continue to keep 6 feet of distance from others, wash your hands often, clean and disinfect frequently touched areas in your home, wear facial coverings in public areas, avoid gatherings with people outside of your household and stay home when you are sick.

“Keep in mind that certain individuals may be at increased risk for serious illness from COVID-19 due to other health conditions. If you have preexisting health conditions or live with someone who has significant health conditions, please take extra precautions to protect yourself or your household member. Additional information on health conditions that may increase the severity of illness from COVID-19 can be found from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You may also find information on extra precautions you can take to avoid COVID-19.

“If at any time you experience symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home and contact your health care provider to see if you are eligible for COVID-19 testing. Continue to stay in isolation as directed by your health care provider or public health. If you are identified as a close contact to someone who tests positive for COVID-19, please stay home in quarantine for at least 14 days following your last contact with the individual.”

As of Sept. 11, Shawano County reported 377 total cases of COVID-19; Menominee County reported 33.

Free testing will be available to all Wisconsin residents with symptoms or concerns about COVID-19 on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Crawford Center, 251 S. Waukechon St., Shawano. Members of the Wisconsin National Guard will provide the in-vehicle testing.

Details are available at the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department website, https://www.co.shawano.wi.us/departments/?department=5c6edb95d748.

The Leader will update this story as information becomes available.