Montana COVID-19 case numbers update – July 20

HELENA — Montana state health officials reported 88 new COVID-19 cases on Monday morning, according to the Montana Response COVID-19 tracking map.

Two additional deaths have also been reported bringing the total number of deaths in Montana related to coronavirus to 39.

Both of the new deaths are connected to the Canyon Creek Memory Care facility in Billings where a deadly outbreak has now claimed 12 lives. RiverStone Health issued this press release Monday morning:

RiverStone Health, Yellowstone County’s public health department, is reporting two additional COVID-19 related deaths stemming from the outbreak at Canyon Creek Memory Care.

Saturday, July 18, a woman in her 80s passed away at Canyon Creek Memory Care.

Sunday, July 19, a man in his 80s also passed away at Canyon Creek Memory Care.

These most recent deaths in Yellowstone County are reflected on today’s state COVID-19 tracking map. In the last two weeks, since Monday, July 6, a total of 12 residents from Canyon Creek have died.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the passing of these residents. Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy and the tragedy of COVID-19 related deaths is all the more heartbreaking. Our sincerest condolences to the families and friends of these individuals,” said John Felton, Yellowstone County Health Officer and RiverStone Health President and CEO.

To date, 717 Yellowstone County residents have been infected with COVID-19 and 17 have died.

Governor Steve Bullock issued the following statement regarding the deaths:

“Two more Montanans have sadly passed from COVID-19. My heart goes out to their families and community. As we continue to see the tragic situation unfold at Canyon Creek, I call on Montanans to keep their guard up. We do have the ability to fight this virus and can protect our loved ones by wearing a mask and socially distancing, especially around those who are high risk.”

Monday’s data shows the total number of cases in the state now stands at 2,651.

The state tracking map is reporting 2,621 cases due in part to differences in reporting by county health departments which often receive information on confirmed COVID-19 cases before state officials.

Eight additional COVID-19 cases are being reported in Flathead County as well as four additional cases in Missoula County. Three additional COVID-19 cases are being reported in both Lake County and Lincoln County.