The percentage of coronavirus tests coming back positive fell today to 4.2 percent, continuing a downward trend since reaching seven percent Sunday. New cases reported Wednesday added up to 583, bringing the statewide total to 29,242. Of those, more than 5,300 remain active — up from yesterday’s 5,280.
Additionally, two more people died — one in Washington County and one in Waukesha County.
The largest local increase was in Milwaukee County, with 195 new cases and 11.75 percent of tests coming back positive.
Several other counties saw double-digit increases, including:
Brown County: 43 new cases, 11 percent positive tests
Dane County: 80 new cases, 3.5 percent positive tests
Eau Claire County: 11 new cases, 7.3 percent positive tests
Kenosha County: 19 new cases, 3.73 percent positive tests
La Crosse County: 24 new cases, 5.5 percent positive tests
Outagamie County: 15 new cases, 4.9 percent positive tests
Washington County: 12 new cases, 2.5 percent positive tests
Waukesha County: 35 new cases, 2.9 percent positive tests
Hospitalizations statewide are up slightly to 237, five fewer than yesterday and two fewer than a week ago. Of down currently hospitalized for COVID-19, 77 require intensive care. Additionally, 147 people are hospitalized and awaiting test results.
The rate of disparity in Latino populations continues to stand out — 31 percent of total cases are now Latino people, and 35 percent of today’s new cases. Latinos make up just seven percent of the state’s overall population.
Similarly, 17 percent of all cases are Black people, as are 26 percent of total COVID-19 related deaths in the state. Black people make up just six percent of the state’s population.
DHS also reports that 79 percent of those confirmed to have been infected have recovered and 2.7 percent have died.
