BILLINGS - Yellowstone County health officials announced the fourth COVID-19 related death in the county.
Officials at RiverStone Health said a man in his 60s died Saturday in a hospital. The agency said no other information about the case would be released in order "to protect the privacy of the individual and family members."
The death marks the 21st COVID-19 related death statewide.
“We extend our wish for peace and comfort to family and friends of this man as they grieve the loss of their loved one,” John Felton, Yellowstone County Health Officer and President and CEO of RiverStone Health, said in a press release. “This death serves as a tragic reminder about the seriousness of COVID-19. In the last 5 days, 16 Yellowstone County residents have tested positive for the disease. As case counts continue to rise in Yellowstone County and across the state, each of us must continue to be vigilant in taking measures to prevent COVID-19.”
Montana Gov. Steve Bullock released this statement about the most recent death:
“Each loss of a Montanan to COVID-19 weighs heavily on our communities. While we send our condolences to the loved ones impacted, we must all continue to remember we are in this together and it’s up to us to keep our friends and neighbors safe.”
RiverStone Health emphasized the importance of practicing disease prevention measures and following recommendations for the health and safety of all Montanans. This includes:
- Washing your hands frequently,
- Maintaining physical distance of at least 6 feet,
- Wearing a mask when physical distancing isn’t possible, and
- Staying home when you are sick.
To date, 125 Yellowstone County residents have been infected with COVID-19.