Flathead County passes 80 total virus-related deaths

The Flathead City-County Health Department reported seven additional COVID-19-related deaths Monday afternoon, bringing Flathead County’s virus fatality count to 81.

According to a press release, the deaths occurred over the course of the past month, with five of the fatalities being associated with residential care facilities in the area. Many of Flathead County’s virus-related deaths to date have occurred as a result of outbreaks in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.

“We send our condolences to the family and friends of these individuals,” said Flathead City-County Health Department Health Officer Joe Russell. “We will continue to work diligently to administer vaccines to the most vulnerable in our community. Until the vaccine is more widely available, please continue to social distance, wear a mask, and stay home when you are sick.”

It’s been nearly one year since the novel coronavirus was first detected in Montana.

State data shows more than 100,000 Montanans have tested positive for the virus to date. Of those cases, more than 1,300 have resulted in fatalities. There are currently more than 1,600 active cases statewide, which includes around 200 cases in Flathead County.

As for vaccinations, more than 250,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered since immunization efforts began in December. Nearly 90,000 Montanans are fully immunized, including around 6,100 in Flathead County, according to state data.

Reporter Kianna Gardner may be reached at 758-4407 or kgardner@dailyinterlake.com