COVID-19 Response

Monitoring COVID-19 in the community

As of August 5, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has moved Dane County back into a “medium” community level for the transmission of COVID-19.  Public Health Madison & Dane County says the numbers of reported COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations is again stable.

The BA.5 Omicron subvariant is the dominant virus strain in the US, making up 85.5% of new cases. PHMDC says the BA.5 subvariant is also likely the dominant virus strain in Dane County and Wisconsin.

“We’re seeing this trend of communities moving to medium and high levels nationwide, and it is possible we could bounce between medium and high levels for a few weeks,” PHMDC Director Janel Heinrich said. “Being aware of our local landscape—especially if you are immunocompromised or at risk of severe illness—and taking appropriate actions can help prevent the spread of the virus.”

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, consider wearing a mask when indoors. High-quality masks like KF94s, KF95s, and N95s provide great protection, even if no one else around you is wearing a mask. While all masks and respirators provide some level of protection, PHMDC says, properly fitting respirators — like N95 and KN95s — provide the highest level of protection.

PHMDC also recommends everyone stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccination. This includes booster shots.

UW–Madison is monitoring COVID-19 in our community and continues working closely with state and local public health officials. There are no changes to campus policy at this time.

Students, faculty, and staff should stay home when sick. University Health Services continues to offer no-cost COVID-19 vaccinations and PCR testing by appointment. Antigen test kits and masks are also available at 333 East Campus Mall. Check for distribution times.