MILES CITY - Custer County has reported its first positive test for COVID-19.
The case involves an out-of-state worker whose results came back Tuesday from the state lab in Helena.
According to a press release from the Custer County-Miles City Unified Health Command, the person was infected in their home state and Montana health officials have notified anyone who they may have come in contact with.
Officials also noted there is no evidence at this time of community-based transmission in Custer County.
The release states that because it's an out-of-state resident the case will likely not be included in Montana's overall COVID-19 count.
RELATED: Montana reports 2 new COVID-19 cases
Here is the full press release:
PRESS RELEASE
FROM CUSTER COUNTY/MILES CITY UNIFIED COMMAND:
5-12-20
An out of state essential worker in Custer County has been tested by a healthcare provider and confirmed to be infected with COVID-19 Coronavirus by the state laboratory in Helena on May 12th, 2020. The public health department has been in contact with the individual, the healthcare provider, and those who are also at risk of becoming infected. Isolation and quarantine measures are in place for both the confirmed case and monitoring of those at risk of being infected by close contact.
The individual was infected in their home state and at this time there is no evidence of community based transmission in Custer County. The confirmed case did not present with symptoms (asymptomatic), but was tested because of contact with a known confirmed case in their home state.
It is likely that because this is an out of state resident working in Custer County, the number will not be reflected in the overall count of Montana numbers.
Now, as much as before, the practices of isolation and social distancing to confine the spread of Coronavirus must be followed to keep our community safe.
Many cases may have been mild or difficult to notice symptoms. This means even if you feel well, avoiding social interactions and keeping 6ft of distance will help prevent spreading the virus to those who are at highest risk of being hospitalized. Studies show that roughly 98% of patients will have symptoms by the 12th day after they were first infected. This is the reason behind the recommended 14 day quarantine. Limiting contact with others, even if they appear well is critically important.
Everyday Precautions
We have a responsibility to reduce risks of all respiratory illness, including COVID-19. We encourage the following:
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often
• Avoid touching your face
• Wear a cloth mask when out in public settings (grocery store, retail store, etc)
• Avoid groups of 10 or more, especially in enclosed spaces
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• Maintain social distance to avoid possible exposure to viruses
• Avoid handshakes and hugs
• Frequently disinfect “high-touch” surfaces like doorknobs, handles, cell phones, keyboards, railings, remote controls, tablets, and counters
