COVID-19 in Wisconsin: More than 50,000 have recovered, 5,000 hospitalized to date

(FOX 9) - The state of Wisconsin has reported a total of 998 COVID-19 deaths since the pandemic began, according to state statistics. 

With two more deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the state is now just two away from reaching 1,000. 

621 new cases now makes 60,554 total cases in the state to date. 

In addition, more than 50,000 (50,028) COVID-19 patients have recovered from the virus and exactly 5,000 Wisconsinites have been hospitalized with it. 

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced last month an indoor mask mandate for people over the age of 5. Face coverings while indoors except at a private residence are required as of Saturday, Aug. 1.

Evers extended the state's stay-at-home order until May 26, but on May 13, the state Supreme Court blocked the extension, effectively opening all establishments in the state. Hours later, images emerged of packed bars across the state, leading the Governor to call his state "The Wild West." Evers' original "Safer at Home" order went into effect on March 25. 

On April 4, President Donald Trump approved a disaster declaration for Wisconsin due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This declaration allows for federal funding to be allocated to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that were impacted by the virus.

If you have questions or immediate needs related to COVID-19, you can Text COVID19 to 211-211, visit 211Wisconsin.org or call 211. Call volumes are high, so officials are asking people to be patient and try to use the text or online options first. 

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of COVID-19, health officials advise you to call your health care provider. 

To prevent illness, wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, clean frequently touched surfaces every day and stay home when you are si