COVID-19 update

Melissa Brummell, RN, Public Health Director, reported 10 new positive COVID-19 since July 28, 2020, making 73 positive cases with 20 still being active. In addition, 2 new seasonal residents have tested positive with both cases still active. The recent coronavirus cases include 8 people ranging in the 50’s and older, 1 child between 0-9 and 1 adult in the 20-29 range. To date 48% of Madison County cases are age 60 and older. Whereas the state of Montana is 21% for this age group. In the past week, we have had 44 individuals listed as close contacts of the new positive cases. Close contacts have been notified and will be in a 14-day quarantine period to help decrease the
spread of the virus.

In addition, the State of Montana reported 169,970 individuals have been tested to date with 153 new positive cases making 3,965 cases including 60 deaths at the time of this press release. Additional information concerning the State of Montana’s COVID-19 cases can be found at: https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt/demographics

On July 30, 2020, the Board of Health held a public Special COVID-19 meeting. After discussion and public comment period, the Board of Health voted and approved area school districts to make more stringent guidelines if needed to reopen the schools. In addition, the Board approved Melissa Brummell to work with the Department Public Health Human Services to evaluate and determine the Community Transmission status for Madison County. A state directive is currently in place requiring face coverings be worn by most people in public spaces in Madison County. In addition, we need everyone to do more than just wear face coverings to slow the spread of COVID-19. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, you can take simple steps to protect yourself
and your family:

•Social distance yourself from others.
•Avoid contact with sick people when possible.
•Cover your cough and sneezes with the crook of your elbow or a tissue.
•Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and wash your hands frequently.
•Use a cloth face-covering while in public. and
•Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing. Stay at home unless seeking medical care, if you develop any of the previous symptoms or others include fatigue, body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, nausea or vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Madison County Public Health Department is available during normal business hours by phone at 406.843.4295. For additional information concerning COVID-19, visit the Public Health’s website at: https://madisoncountymt.gov/230/Public-Health

Please contact the Madison County Sanitarian Department at 406.843.4275 for information relating to business licensures and sanitation.

Visit DPHHS’ website at: https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt for additional information.