Ravalli County Announces COVID ‘Community Spread’

This week, Ravalli County Public Health noted a positive test for COVID-19 that could not be traced to travel or any other confirmed virus case. Karyn Johnston said that puts the case in the "community spread" category, which means the infection could've been anywhere. That makes it even more important to maintain safety measures, including frequent hand washing with soap, social distancing and wearing a cloth face covering when around others. People can spread the virus 48 hours before they have any symptoms. Without a vaccine for COVID-19, "in Montana, prevention is treatment."

Johnston reports six active coronavirus cases in Ravalli County as of Thursday evening. The Friday morning Montana report from the Department of Public Health and Human Services noted another 29 new positive tests statewide, with 218 active cases, 14 of which are hospitalized. Five new cases in Missoula County. The virus has claimed 22 lives in the state. 589 people have recovered. Testing now includes over 80,000 Montanans. For local questions about COVID-19, call the Health Department at (406) 375-6672.

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in Hamilton is expanding its Viral Clinic Monday, June 29. The tent will be taken down and the clinic will be in a separate facility next door to Marcus Daly Convenient Care. There will be Viral Clinic purple signs to direct patients. Please call 375-4762 before coming to the clinic. The facility is for anyone experiencing flu-like or viral symptoms. Curbside service is also available.