The Gallatin City-County Health Department confirmed two new cases of COVID-19 Thursday afternoon, bringing the cumulative total to 148.
In addition, Lake County officials confirmed that an out-of-state resident tested positive for the disease. That person is scheduled to leave the state Friday and not use public transportation.
There are two confirmed active cases in Gallatin County. So far in 2020, there have been a total of 145 people recovered and 2,531 tests in Gallatin County. One person has died from COVID-19 complications.
Gallatin County’s two new positive cases are located in West Yellowstone and are in the same family. The cases are believed to be tied to out-of-state travel. There has been limited exposure to others in the community, and the family is cooperating with efforts by Gallatin City-County Health Department staff to limit the spread of the disease.
The Gallatin City-County Health Department is working with the individuals to support and sustain them through their isolation and quarantine. The Health Department will not be releasing any additional information about these individuals.
The state’s data, which is updated daily at 10 a.m., does not reflect these new Gallatin County cases. The new Gallatin County cases bring the state's total to 458 and breaks a three-day streak of no new cases in Montana. All Gallatin County cases consist of community transmission, close contact, and travel related history.
The out-of-state resident in Lake County will not be counted as a Montana case, according to health officials.
Officials ask residents to stay patient and flexible as Montana works through a phased reopening.
The following are Phase 1 reopening guidelines for individuals: ● All individuals should continue maximizing physical distance from others while in public. ● All vulnerable individuals should continue to follow stay home guidance. If you live with someone who is vulnerable, use caution with your public interactions so you do not bring the virus into your home. ● Avoid gathering in groups of 10 or more in circumstances that do not readily allow for appropriate physical distancing. ● Minimize non-essential travel and adhere to Montana guidelines regarding quarantine.
