The Missoula City County Health Department reported that five people died from COVID 19 today, Friday, October 15.

Those who died on Friday included one young adult, one middle-aged adult and three older adults. Since the start of October, Missoula County has recorded 17 deaths total. Last month, Missoula County recorded 19 COVID-19 deaths.

Incident Commander Cindy Farr told KGVO News that the health department cannot disclose the genders of the victims, as that is considered private information.

Health Officer D’Shane Barnett was quoted as saying ‘“We’re seeing a significant loss of life in our community-- it is devastating. We need to come together as a community and practice the precautions we know work to limit the spread of disease and ultimately the loss of life in our community. We send our sincerest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of everyone lost to this terrible virus,”

According to the Mayo Clinic, Montana is behind only Alaska with the highest rate of COVID-19 infections. The complication of an aging population is contributing to the poor health outcomes for rural residents of western Montana.

The Missoula City County Health Department repeats the guidance that vaccination is the best way to make sure an individual does not end up seriously ill or in the hospital due to COVID 19.

A press release from the health department states ‘The health department’s vaccination site at the Southgate Mall is open seven days a week and accepting walk-ups and appointments for first and second dose patients. Residents seeking third doses or booster doses must make an appointment. The clinic’s hours and a link to make appointments can be found on missoulainfo.com. The no-cost vaccine clinic taking place in Seeley Lake on Oct. 20 will run from noon to 5 p.m. at 3150 Montana Highway 83 north and no appointment is necessary.’

 

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