BILLINGS — Yellowstone County health officials reported Monday two additional COVID-19 deaths of county residents.
RiverStone Health said on Feb. 4 a man in his 80s died at a Yellowstone County senior living facility, and on Feb. 7 a man in his 80s died at a Billings hospital.
“I am deeply saddened by the continuing losses to our community from the pandemic,” said John Felton, RiverStone Health CEO and Yellowstone County health officer. “I extend my sympathy to the family and friends of the two latest pandemic victims.”
Yellowstone County has lost 228 residents to the pandemic, 22 of whom died since the first of this year, the health agency said in a press release.
At least 15,768 Yellowstone County residents have tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, according to RiverStone Health. Among those infected, 1,021 Yellowstone County residents have been hospitalized, including 18 patients newly admitted to hospitals since Feb. 1.
The supply of COVID-19 vaccine available in Yellowstone County continues to be limited and insufficient to meet community demand. Community clinics are being scheduled as vaccine supplies arrive.
Meanwhile, residents need to keep taking precautions to reduce the spread of this virus: Keep your distance, wear masks when around people who don’t live with you, wash your hands thoroughly and stay home if you are sick.
COVID-19 information is updated regularly online at covid.riverstonehealth.org.