Whitefish city employee tests positive for COVID-19

The City of Whitefish announced Tuesday afternoon that one of its employees tested positive for COVID-19.

The city says it’s working closely with the Flathead City-County Health Department to ensure that all close contacts of the employee are properly identified.

City Manager Dana Smith says city employees who worked closely with the person were immediately sent home to self-isolate until the health department completes its investigation.

She notes that anyone who is considered a close contact will be contacted directly by the health department.

“The health and wellbeing of our citizens and employees remains our highest priority,” she said.

City officials are reminding folks that the use of face coverings and social distancing remain critical in helping to slow the spread of the virus.

Under a directive from Gov. Steve Bullock face coverings are required while in indoor public spaces and when social distancing is not possible.

“Thank you for continuing to do your part to slow the spread of the virus,” Smith said. “Our vigilance is of the utmost importance moving forward so we will be able to keep our schools and businesses open and safe.”

As of Wednesday, there were 119 active cases of COVID-19 in Flathead County and 539 cumulative confirmed cases of the virus. Montana has 6,785 confirmed cases, according to the state.