GALLATIN COUNTY — As of Friday evening, there were 4 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Montana with one reported case is in Gallatin County.
According to the Gallatin City-County Health Department, the individual is a male in his 40’s and is currently recovering at home.
The individual was tested on Thursday and the results came back Friday evening.
Health Officer Matt Kelley said Saturday in a press conference that the individual had returned from a trip to Europe on Wednesday evening.
Officials did not specify which country in Europe.
The Health Department reported the individual and his family acted responsibly and isolated themselves from the public, which Kelley says is critical.
“The individual’s brief time spent in Montana and conscious efforts to stay at home has resulted in no identified close contact of concern related to this case,” said Kelley at the press conference.
“There’s no indication that the individual or his family had contact with any sensitive places such as long term care facilities and public gatherings.”
The individual and his family continue to self-quarantine.
An investigation will continue for those who may have come into contact with the individual during travel.
“The health department will work with the airlines and identify the individuals who were within a certain radius of the family when they flew in,” said Kelley.
As of Saturday afternoon, the Gallatin City-County Health Department has not issued any specific guidance about group sizes or canceling of events.
But Kelley praised some action already taken by communities.
“There are a lot of event organizers who are taking some really responsible actions who are either postponing or rescheduling their events.”
We will continue to track COVID-19 in Gallatin County and will provide more information as it becomes available.
