May 4, 2020
As of noon today, May 4, 2020, there are no new cases of COVID-19 in Ravalli County. There were 5 positive cases, and all of the cases have recovered.
Ravalli County is gradually opening through Phase One within the directions provided by Governor Bullock. On May 4th, restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries, casinos could open. It is up to each person to take the recommendations seriously. The directives are meant to provide the best information possible to open safely.
Still in place, among other direction, is distancing, avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people, protecting vulnerable populations, and 14 day quarantine for out of state travelers. The State of Montana Phase One Reopening Frequently Asked Questions, April 28, is a good source of information about acceptable practices
According to Dr. Carol Calderwood, Ravalli County COVID-19 Incident Commander and Public Health Officer, “We all want the positive cases of COVID-19 to decline. We are doing our best to ensure the health and safety of the public, employees, and employers, but we can’t do it alone.
There have been several requests to the Public Health Department, and to Dixie Dies, as the Ravalli County Public Information Officer, to review either opening plans or plans for events. “We are glad to review written plans and to provide advice if we have a few days lead time,” said Dies. “Last week, I had several people call and asked to review their plans verbally for activities the next day. The best course of action is to plan ahead, and submit your information in writing. We will get back to you as quickly as possible. However, we will not be giving any recommendations. We are following the direction outlined in Governor Bullock’s Phase One. It is up to each person or organization to implement the Governor’s direction. Stay safe, distance, take personal responsibility.”
The Ravalli County Emergency Operations Center number can be contacted from 8 am to 6pm, 406-375-6650. The Center is available to answer questions about COVID-19, and record out of State arrivals.
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