State health officials say COVID-19 is everywhere in the state and it's spreading silently

By: Winnie Dortch

Posted: Oct 22, 2020 4:45 PM CST

NOW: State health officials say COVID-19 is everywhere in the state and it’s spreading silently

MADISON, Wis (CBS 58)-- It’s the same message from state leaders every week. During the state briefing on Thursday, the governor re-enforced that the virus is spreading silently and it's up to the public to help reduce the spread.

“Covid-19 is everywhere in our state, and it’s still spreading," Andrea Palm said. She is secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. “When activity level is this high and the trajectory of our cases is growing, gatherings of any size are not safe.”

As of Thursday, Oct. 22, there are 3,413 new cases and 22 new deaths. The first person arrived at the facility at State Fair Park on Wednesday.

“And we have one patient there today, these are stark numbers and with our current surge in cases, our hospital numbers are going to get worse before they get better," Palm said.

Governor Evers says it’s all about individual responsibility. He mentioned that it's important to wear your mask at all times, wash your hands frequently and avoid large gatherings. He says the virus is no joke.

“To those who say this pandemic has been blown out of proportion or that there isn’t a real risk, folks, that’s flat out wrong. Wisconsinites in every corner of our state have experienced this virus firsthand," Gov. Evers said.

Although you may feel fine, health officials say you still should get tested for COVID-19.

“The majority of new cases in this state are the result of transmission from someone that doesn’t have symptoms," Ryan Westergaard said. He is the DHS chief medical officer.

President Trump is hosting a rally in Waukesha this weekend. Gov. Evers says he knows the president won’t adhere to safety precautions.

“He should essentially say if you’re not wearing a mask, don’t come. That should be his message. Do I think that’s going to happen? Absolutely not," Evers said.

Gov. Evers says the state orders have made a difference. However, they are looking at the people who are not complying with the mask order.