The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Compiled by Zoe Merrillhe following was a news release: “Approved by BOH February 23, 2021

In accordance with CDC recommendations and Governor Gianforte’s encouragement for “wearing of masks as a show of respect and care for the people around us”; the Chouteau County Public Health Department proposes the following mask policy for Chouteau County:

Chouteau County residents are encouraged to continue wearing masks indoors and outdoors when social distancing is not possible for now not forever.

Chouteau county business will be supported in their efforts to adopt the mask policy they feel best protects their employees and customers.

Chouteau County Health department will continue to require masks in their building under all circumstances until the new cases of Covid 19 in the county remain under 2 new cases/week for two months or until 51% of the county residents are fully vaccinated.

The Chouteau County Health Department will continue to support local businesses in their attempts to keep the community safe by providing the guidance, education and information as requested.”

I visited with the county healthy nurse and found that approximately 900 people have received their first vaccination and 500 have received their second vaccination. However, every week following the numbers will increase by 100 in each category.

As of 2019 Chouteau County had 5,732 residents. 51% would mean that 2,923 residents of Chouteau County would need to get their vaccinations before the above policy would be rescinded. At printing time Chouteau County had three cases of COVID-19.

Call Big Sandy Pharmacy at 378-5588 for an appointemnt.

No matter what your age.