MISSOULA — The Missoula City-County Health Department (MCCHD) on Friday morning reported 44 additional COVID-19 cases since the Thursday update.
There are currently 488 active cases in Missoula County with nearly 1,500 close contacts across the county.
Five of Friday's new COVID-19 cases -- as well as 69 active cases -- are associated with the University of Montana.
Overall, local public health officials are reporting 1,547 cumulative cases.
There have been 1,052 recoveries and seven COVID-19 related deaths to date -- including two reported on Thursday.
Twenty-one people are hospitalized in Missoula County including 13 county residents.
MCCHD notes that "our healthcare infrastructure continues receiving increased pressure affecting overall county capacity to continue handling routine medical needs, as well as COVID-19 medical needs."
MCCHD issued a revised Public Health Order in regards to face masks as well as new restrictions on senior facilities on Thursday.
Missoula County residents can call 406-258-INFO weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss COVID-19 information.
MCCHD has a new website solely focused on COVID-19 information which can be found here.
MCCHD is urging people to continue practicing health and safety behaviors:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Keep at least 6 feet of safe space between you and others as the environment permits.
- Wear a face covering that's fully sealed around your nose and mouth.
- Remember that physical spacing does not replace face coverings - these are tools to be used together for maximum efficacy and safety.
*The Missoula City-County Health Department may be alerted to additional cases before the Montana Department of Health and Human Services.