MISSOULA — The Missoula City-County Health Department (MCCHD) on Thursday morning reported 69 additional COVID-19 cases since the Wednesday update.
MCCHD notes that the Montana DPHHS COVID-19 data dashboard may experience one more day of increased new cases for Missoula County, as they are reporting new cases combined from Wednesday and Thursday.
MCCHD notes that this should better align the cumulative case total for Missoula with the state, and "allow us to stay on track in the days ahead," according to a social media post.
There are currently 450 active cases in Missoula County with more than 750 close contacts across the county. Local public health officials are reporting 1,224 cumulative cases.
There have been 790 recoveries and four COVID-19 related deaths to date, including one reported on Tuesday.
Nine people are hospitalized in Missoula County as of Wednesday including four county residents.
MCCHD reports that 13 of the newly reported COVID-19 cases are from the University of Montana. UM now has 100 active cases and a total of 220 cases since Aug. 12.
The health department reports cases continue to be more prominent among younger adults and exposure to a known active case continues being a significant cause of new cases.
Missoula COVID-19 Incident Commander Cindy Farr said Tuesday that in light of the county’s recent spike in COVID cases, MCCHD will conduct unannounced inspections of bars and restaurants during high business hours.
Missoula County residents can call 406-258-INFO weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss COVID information or to be connected with a screener/scheduler for COVID-19 testing if they are currently experiencing COVID-compatible symptoms.
MCCHD has rolled out 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.
Missoula became the first major city in Montana to require the wearing of face coverings on July 9.
*the Missoula City-County Health Department may be alerted to additional cases before the Montana Department of Health and Human Services.