Concerns regarding the coronavirus (or COVID-19 as it has been officially termed) has activated the Unified Health Command (UHC) in Yellowstone County, to coordinate any needed emergency actions and to keep the public informed. The UHC is made up of Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare and RiverStone Health.
Working with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, the UHC has been on alert monitoring the evolving situation and preparing to take necessary measures to curb the spread of disease.
So far there have been no cases identified in Montana. To protect against contracting the disease, the primary recommendations from the UHC are similar to those recommended in defense of any virus — washing your hands, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning surfaces and staying home if you are sick.
The UHC is meeting frequently with other emergency services providers and government officials in the county to keep abreast of latest information and to respond to developments as they emerge.
In addition they have:
Begun monitoring and conserving healthcare facility supplies of personal protective equipment, including masks and gloves.
Set up a Joint Information Center to provide information and respond to news media requests.
Established a public health information line at 406.651.6415.
Worked to discourage rumors and misinformation.
The website Ready.gov provides emergency plans and checklists to help prepare for disease outbreaks.
