Update on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Current Status in Vermont

The Health Department is closely monitoring the developments in the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus ("COVID-19"). Vermont is prepared to respond to protect and support Vermonters. The State of Vermont today announced the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center as of Wednesday, March 11 at 7:30 a.m. to support the ongoing work of the Vermont Department of Health and expand the capacity of state government to coordinate the COVID-19 response.

On March 7, 2020, health officials announced the first case of COVID-19 in Vermont. This Bennington County case is considered presumptive pending Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmation.

The Health Department worked with the Agency of Education to issue public health guidance to schools and school districts today (March 10). “School Closures and Dismissal During a Novel Coronavirus Outbreak” provides technical guidance for local school officials to guide their decision-making process. It notes that the first step is to talk with the Health Department at 802-863-7240, and those who identify themselves as a school official can connect with staff day or night. This document can be found on healthvermont.gov/covid19 under “Resources for schools, child care programs and colleges.”

A visitor screening tool was provided to hospitals and long-term care facilities to help protect patients and/or residents and staff these facilities. These documents have also been posted on healthvermont.gov/covid19, under “Long-Term Care Facilities” and “Health Care Professionals.”
Health Commissioner Mark Levine is holding weekly calls with health care leadership around the state to provide updates and answer questions about the current situation.

Guidance documents are being added and updated daily as needed. These are available at healthvermont.gov/covid19.

Guidance for People in Close Contact with a Person who Tested Positive for COVID-19

People who have been identified by the Health Department as a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 should stay home, practice social distancing and monitor their health for 14 days. Social distancing means remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible. The Health Department will be in contact with you regularly during the monitoring period. If you develop symptoms: Call your health care provider right away. Before you go to an appointment, let your health care provider know that you are being monitored for novel coronavirus. Call Health Department epidemiology and infectious disease staff at 802-863-7240. Avoid contact with others.

People At Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19

Some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness, including older adults and people with chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes or lung disease. According to the CDC, these people should take extra precautions including:

• Stocking up on supplies
• Avoiding crowds
• Avoiding cruise travel and non-essential air travel
• Staying away from others who are sick
•  

Read the CDC’s full guidance on People At Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19.

View these resources at healthvermont.gov/covid19

Vermonters can also dial 2-1-1 for information.

The CDC is regularly updating its guidance at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html.