Virus-related deaths in Montana climb over 500

Montana recorded another 37 COVID-19 related deaths Saturday, pushing the state’s death toll over 500.

As of Saturday, 514 virus-related deaths had been recorded in Montana. Yellowstone County accounted for the most deaths with 100, followed by 49 deaths in Cascade County and 45 in Big Horn County.

“Communities across our state are deeply feeling the impact of this virus, now more than we’ve seen before, and families are facing a holiday season without the ones they love most,” Gov. Steve Bullock said in a statement. “COVID-19 is projected to be near the top in leading causes of death in Montana this year.

“It is within our power to save lives. If Montanans mask up, follow public health requirements, and stay home as much as possible, we can save hundreds of lives. Let’s prove we value the health of our community and our frontline workers who go to work in crowded hospitals day and night to care for us.”

The state added 1,660 new cases Saturday, including 440 in Cascade County. Flathead County recorded 136 new cases, and had 1,534 active cases.

Statewide, 435 people were hospitalized with COVID-19.