Southwest Montana News

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has confirmed the first cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in Montana. The detection was made through testing positive samples from two residents in their 30s who had traveled to South Africa. Genomic sequencing conducted at the Montana State Public Health Laboratory and Montana State University verified the presence of the variant.

The individuals, who reside in Gallatin County, experienced mild symptoms that are improving. They have been self-isolating since returning to Montana and were fully vaccinated.

“This is not a surprise as nearly every other state has reported Omicron cases in recent weeks,” stated DPHHS Director Adam Meier. He urged Montanans to utilize all available health measures, including vaccination and boosters, to stay healthy during winter.

Montana is now the 46th state with a confirmed case of the Omicron variant. The DPHHS continues sequencing COVID-19 samples for variants, supported by partner laboratories such as UM, MSU, and FYR Diagnostics.

Omicron is classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a Variant of Concern. Scientists are assessing its transmissibility compared to Delta and evaluating vaccine effectiveness against it. Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe outcomes from Omicron infections.

Despite this development, Delta remains predominant both nationally and within Montana. Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek, acting State Medical Officer at DPHHS, highlighted concerns over rising COVID-19 cases across states primarily due to Delta. She emphasized caution and preventive measures against COVID-19 spread in Montana.

DPHHS advises Montanans on steps to safeguard themselves from infection by COVID-19 variants like Omicron.

Further information on Omicron can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html.