County Addresses Mental Health Appointments, CDC Gathering Recommendations

Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has identified seven new cases of the COVID-19 virus. The seven new cases are in Fremont County and directly linked to the first Fremont County case. Wyoming has a total of 10 cases. Two cases have been identified in Sheridan County. No new positive test results have returned and testing continues locally.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has reported a total of eight cases for the COVID-19 virus in Montana. Two cases have been identified in Yellowstone County.

The management team at Northern Wyoming Mental Health Center (NWMHC) is developing protocols for seeing clients the safest and most effective way possible. They are currently working on a plan for providing telehealth for group and individual therapy for the next several weeks. NWMHC is still providing services to clients including injections, weekly pill box fills, and crisis services.

Most NWMHC clinical staff will be in the office starting today and working with clients by phone, telehealth, and in-person with precautions to avoid close contact. NWMHC support staff will be answering the phones and transferring clients to speak with clinicians or scheduling appointments to be seen in-person. On-call services are still in place and available 24/7. For more information, please visit their website at http://wyomentalhealth.org/.

The CDC recommends canceling gatherings of more than 10 people for organizations that serve higher-risk populations.

The public is encouraged to follow these guidelines outlined by the CDC and WDH:

• Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with those who are sick or may have been exposed.
• Stay home if sick (but if you are concerned it may be more than just a cold, please consult your physician).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

The hospital has a Dedicated Coronavirus (COVID-19) Phone Number 307-672-1004.

This line is strictly for those who have the following symptoms and think they may be infected with the virus. The symptoms to watch for are:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath

We are asking that the public not overwhelm our healthcare professionals asking for tests if they are not at risk. For more information please contact Sheridan County Public Health, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 307-672-5169, and follow the voice prompts.

Local links are listed here:

Sheridan Memorial Hospital: https://www.sheridanhospital.org/

Sheridan VA: https://www.sheridan.va.gov/

Sheridan College: https://www.sheridan.edu/

Sheridan School District 1: https://www.sheridan.k12.wy.us/

Sheridan School District 2: https://scsd2.com/

Sheridan School District 3: https://www.sheridan3.com/

Holy Name Catholic School: https://holynamesheridan.org/school

Martin Luther Grammar School: https://wyoschool.faith/