Current News Releases

New Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Hub Now Open in Bennington

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:21:08 +0000

New Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Hub Now Open in Bennington

For Immediate Release: July 18, 2025

Media Contact: Kyle Casteel - Media Lead

Communication Office │ Department of Health

802-863-7280 │ [email protected]">[email protected]

New Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Hub Now Open in Bennington
Grand opening event planned for July 23

WATERBURY, VT — A new treatment hub for opioid use disorder is now open in Bennington, marking a significant expansion to the state's network of services for people recovering from substance misuse. The site is operated by BayMark Health Services – known as BAART Programs in Vermont – which is North America’s largest provider of medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders. BAART Bennington began providing services in June and will celebrate a grand opening on July 23.

“The opening of this facility is a testament to years of hard work and collaboration between the Health Department, BayMark, the Bennington community and many more partners,” said Health Department Deputy Commissioner Kelly Dougherty, who oversees the state’s substance use treatment programs. “By adding this new hub in Bennington to our statewide system of care, we are improving access and reducing barriers for Vermonters in recovery.”

Vermont’s hub-and-spoke opioid treatment service system is organized through geographic regions—Northwest, Northeast, Central, Southeast, and Southwest. With the opening of BAART Bennington, each region now has at least one “hub,” a licensed Opioid Treatment Program with the authority to dispense buprenorphine and methadone, two powerful medications used to treat individuals with opioid use disorder. “Spokes” are healthcare practices that can provide office-based treatment supported with buprenorphine – previously the only level of care available in Bennington.

“Before the Bennington hub opened, people seeking this level of treatment needed to travel significant distances, or outside of the state, to receive care,” Dougherty said. “Opioid misuse continues to impact our communities. Having accessible treatment for people in Vermont remains crucial.”

The Health Department is supporting the new hub in Bennington with a $3.9 million grant to help cover startup, operational costs, and the cost of treatment for those without insurance through July 2026. BAART Bennington has an estimated capacity to serve about 400 people in need of medication to treat opioid use disorder annually, and offers other recovery services including case management, addiction and relapse prevention education, and referrals to community resources. Health officials said over 11,000 people received opioid treatment services from Vermont’s hub-and-spoke system of care in 2023.

Grand Opening:

Media are invited to BAART Bennington’s official grand opening at 120 Depot St, Ste 4
Bennington, VT 05201.

The event is scheduled July 23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be followed by tours of the facility.

Please RSVP with Sean Cossey at [email protected]">[email protected] by July 22.

# # #

About the Department of Health

We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.

Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

Translated Information – Print, video and audio resources are translated into many of the languages used in Vermont. Visit HealthVermont.gov/Translations for searchable tables of documents in each of the nine languages – including about preventing illness, healthy homes, and staying safe and healthy during extreme events like storms, power outages, hurricanes, and flooding.

adm-kyle.casteel Fri, 07/18/2025 - 08:21

Learn to Spot Cyanobacteria in the Water to Stay Safe All Summer Long

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:10:55 +0000

Learn to Spot Cyanobacteria in the Water to Stay Safe All Summer Long

For Immediate Release: June 30, 2025

Media Contacts:
Kyle Casteel – Media Lead

Communication Office │ Department of Health

802-863-7280 │ [email protected]">[email protected]

Peter Isles – Aquatic Biologist

Department of Environmental Conservation

802-490-6130 | [email protected]">[email protected]

Learn to Spot Cyanobacteria in the Water to Stay Safe All Summer Long
Cyanobacteria blooms may appear in Vermont’s lakes and ponds, and can harm your health

WATERBURY, VT — It’s the time of year to start checking Vermont’s waters for cyanobacteria blooms before you swim, play, or bring your pets, so you can have fun in the water safely.

Cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) are tiny microorganisms that are a natural part of freshwater ecosystems. Under certain conditions, the bacteria can grow and create blooms that float on the water’s surface and wash up along shorelines, posing health risks to humans and animals.

The blooms can produce harmful toxins, so if you see them, it’s best to stay out of the water. Swimming or wading in water with a cyanobacteria bloom may cause skin rashes, diarrhea, a sore throat, stomach problems, or more serious health concerns.

“Cyanobacteria blooms can be especially dangerous to children who accidentally swallow the water when playing, and for pets that may drink from the shoreline or lick water off their coats,” said Bridget O’Brien, an environmental health scientist with the Department of Health.

How to know what a bloom looks like:

Cyanobacteria blooms are usually green or blue-green and can make the water look like pea soup or spilled paint, but they can be other colors and consistencies too.

See a video and photos of what is – and isn’t – a cyanobacteria bloom: HealthVermont.gov/Cyanobacteria

If you think you’ve spotted a cyanobacteria bloom:

Avoid contact with the water. If you come in contact with cyanobacteria, rinse off thoroughly as soon as possible.
Do not let pets or livestock swim in or drink the water.
Talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about possible exposure.
Report the possible bloom to the beach manager and/or the local Town Health Officer. You can also report suspected blooms on the state’s Cyanobacteria tracker.

The Health Department and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) work closely with the Lake Champlain Committee, which trains volunteers around the state to monitor Lake Champlain and other bodies of water and report conditions through the Cyanobacteria Tracker. Anyone can report and upload photos of suspected cyanobacteria blooms using the tracker’s online form. Reports are reviewed, confirmed, and posted to the tracker.

“The reports about bloom conditions submitted by volunteers and the public have been invaluable for understanding where blooms occur in the region, which can allow us to target monitoring efforts and remediation measures," said Peter Isles, an aquatic biologist with DEC.

People can check the map to see where cyanobacteria blooms have been reported recently, but the map does not show up-to-the-minute conditions at your favorite swimming area – caution is always advised.

Bloom conditions can and do change quickly, and not all locations are monitored. Vermonters should learn what blooms commonly look like and always pay attention to any posted warning and closure signs. People can also check with their town for conditions at locally managed beaches.

Learn more about cyanobacteria and find translated information and “Cyanobacteria Alert” and “Beach Closed” signs in 12 languages.

The Lake Champlain Committee coordinates a program of volunteer cyanobacteria monitors. To get involved, email [email protected]">[email protected].

# # #

About the Department of Health

We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.

Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

About the Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. To file a discrimination complaint, for questions, free language services, or requests for reasonable accommodations, please contact ANR’s Nondiscrimination Coordinator at [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] or visit ANR’s online Notice of Nondiscrimination.

adm-kyle.casteel Mon, 06/30/2025 - 09:10

Stay Safe as Summer Heats Up in Vermont

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:55:53 +0000

Stay Safe as Summer Heats Up in Vermont

For Immediate Release: June 20, 2025

Media Contact: Kyle Casteel

Communication Office │ Department of Health

802-863-7280 │ [email protected]">[email protected]
National Weather Service Burlington – 802-658-0150
Vermont Emergency Management – 802-244-8721

Stay Safe as Summer Heats Up in Vermont

Learn how to keep yourself cool and look out for those around you

WATERBURY, VT – Unseasonably hot temperatures are expected next week, with high temperatures forecast to rise over the weekend, reaching the upper 80s to mid 90s by Monday and Tuesday. High heat can increase the risk for dehydration, muscle cramps, headache, nausea, fainting, or even heat stroke, especially before our bodies are used to the change.

In states with relatively cool climates like Vermont, older adults, people with disabilities and people managing chronic health conditions are often at the highest risk for severe heat illnesses, said Jared Ulmer, Climate and Health Program Manager with the Department of Health.

“It’s a good idea to check in on loved ones and neighbors, especially if they don’t have air conditioning at home, live alone or need help with daily care,” Ulmer said.

Tips for Staying Safe and Healthy in Hot Weather:

“Look Before You Lock!” Never leave children, people with disabilities, older adults, or pets in a closed vehicle.
Drink plenty of water, or non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids.
Seek relief in air-conditioned spaces or other cool and shaded places – Find an interactive cooling sites map at: HealthVermont.gov/hot-weather.
Close window shades during the day. Keep windows closed when it is hotter outside than inside. Avoid using appliances and lights that generate heat.
It can take up to 14 days for your body to get used to being active in the heat, so take extra precautions earlier in the summer. Ease into any activities and limit them during the hottest part of the day.

Most heat illness symptoms can be treated by drinking fluids and resting in a cooler place. If symptoms continue or get worse, or someone you are with seems confused or loses consciousness, dial 9-1-1 and get immediate medical help.

Other people at high risk of heat-related illness include those who work or exercise outdoors, people who are unhoused, pregnant people, young children, and people using drugs or alcohol. Consecutive hot days with warm overnight temperatures are particularly dangerous for people without air conditioning, especially if they live alone.

Resources for Vermonters include new Heat Safety Guidance for Caregivers to help reduce the impacts of heat on the people they care for, heat safety tips and information in 12 languages, and an interactive map of cooling site locations.

Vermonters are also encouraged to subscribe to VT Alert at vem.vermont.gov/VTAlert to be notified by phone, text or email when a heat alert is issued.

Heat Safety Resources:

The National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, watch, or warning when the forecasted heat index is dangerously high. Visit weather.gov/btv/heat for detailed heat forecast and safety information. Look for #VTHeatSafety on social media.

National Weather Service – weather.gov/btv @NWSBurlington
Vermont Department of Health – HealthVermont.gov/hot-weather @HealthVermont
Vermont Emergency Management – vem.vermont.gov @vemvt

# # #

About the Department of Health
We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.
Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

adm-kyle.casteel Fri, 06/20/2025 - 08:55

Vermont Department of Health Honors Emergency Medical Service Providers During National EMS Week

Thu, 22 May 2025 19:34:17 +0000

Vermont Department of Health Honors Emergency Medical Service Providers During National EMS Week

For Immediate Release: May 22, 2025

Media Contact: Kyle Casteel – Media Lead
Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280 │ [email protected]

Vermont Department of Health Honors Emergency Medical Service Providers During National EMS Week

WATERBURY, VT - The Vermont Department of Health is recognizing and thanking the dedicated Emergency Medical Services professionals who protect and serve Vermont’s communities.

“EMS professionals play an indispensable role in Vermont’s healthcare system,” said Interim Health Commissioner Julie Arel. “When individuals and communities are at their most vulnerable, these first responders answer the call. To all EMS clinicians: thank you for your skill, heart, and unwavering commitment to the people of Vermont.”

National EMS Week (May 18-24) honors the paramedics, emergency medical technicians, dispatchers, and all clinicians who are the front lines of emergency healthcare. This year’s EMS Week theme, “We Care For Everyone,” recognizes EMS workers for their invaluable contribution to Vermonters’ safety and honors the long-standing commitment of EMS professionals to public health and safety.

“EMS workers make our communities safer, stronger, and more resilient.” said Will Moran, the Health Department’s director of Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Injury Prevention. "As we celebrate EMS Week, I encourage everyone to take a moment to thank an EMS professional and consider how we can support these critical responders in their mission to save lives.”

The 2025 Vermont Emergency Medical Services award recipients are:

First Responder Practitioner of the Year: John Weber, Vergennes Area Rescue Squad
Despite a demanding career as a commercial airline pilot, John has continued to donate his time as a volunteer EMS clinician, never turning away from an opportunity to help others or support the advancement of education and training within the department.

 Basic Life Support Practitioner of the Year: Samantha Atwood, Orleans Emergency Unit
As the Training Officer for Orleans Emergency Unit, Samantha works almost seven days a week going above and beyond to provide the squad’s members with high quality EMS education.

 Advanced Life Support Practitioner of the Year: Scott O’Brien, Town of Barre EMS
Scott's commitment to his EMS organization is second to none. Over the past year, Scott developed a pharmacology manual to help his fellow staff members study and review medications.

 First Responder Service of the Year: Jay Peak Ski Patrol
The Jay Peak Ski Patrol embraces the mission of ensuring a safe skiing experience without detracting from the adventure and thrills that draw thousands of skiers to the mountain each year. They employ danger mitigation measures such as padded fencing, strategically placed signage, and fluorescent flagging with breakaway devices on trail closures.

 Ambulance Service of the Year: Newport Ambulance Service, Inc.
Newport Ambulance’s primary coverage territory is nearly 900 square miles, making it one of the largest EMS systems in Vermont. With 17 towns and 5 Unified Towns and Gores in their primary service area, they are constantly rotating their 11 ambulances among their 4 stations using real-time data to ensure each corner of their territory is covered.

 EMS for Children Champion of the Year: Jenna Lindemann, Vergennes Area Rescue Squad
Jenna was one of the first Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinators in the state, a cadre of caring people known as "pediatric champions.” Jenna has been an instrumental part of the Health Department’s current initiative to provide sensory kits to all Vermont EMS agencies.

EMS Educator of the Year: Sarah Lamb, Richmond Rescue
Sarah leads by example, demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism and compassion. Her impact on EMS education, both as a teacher and a leader, is immeasurable.

 EMS Lifetime Award: Dale Porter, Morristown EMS
Since 1976, Dale has been integral to the growth of so many EMS clinicians as a nurse, a nurse educator, a paramedic, an EMS educator, and an assistant medical examiner. Dale has touched thousands of lives over her extensive career.

###

About the Department of Health
We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.
Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

adm-kyle.casteel Thu, 05/22/2025 - 15:34

Deaths from Opioid Overdose Declined Significantly in 2024

Mon, 19 May 2025 12:52:14 +0000

Deaths from Opioid Overdose Declined Significantly in 2024

For Immediate Release: May 19, 2025
Media Contact: Kyle Casteel – Media Lead
Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280 │ [email protected]">[email protected]

Deaths from Opioid Overdose Declined Significantly in 2024
Data Shows First Sustained Annual Decrease in Opioid Overdose Deaths Since 2019

WATERBURY, VT — New data from the Vermont Department of Health shows a significant decline in opioid overdose deaths last year. According to the newly-released Fatal Opioid Overdoses Among Vermonters Report, 183 Vermonters died from an opioid-related overdose in 2024, a 22% decrease from 2023 when 236 people died. This marks the second consecutive year of a decline in overdose deaths, after a slight drop in 2023.

“We’re grateful to see this decline,” said Health Department Deputy Commissioner Kelly Dougherty, who oversees Vermont’s substance use programs. “At the same time, people are still dying due to opioid overdose, and we must not forget the lasting impact these losses have on families and communities. We must continue strengthening our partnerships and systems of care to respond to these challenges.”

While fatal overdoses involving fentanyl decreased by 25% between 2022 and 2024, fentanyl continues to be the number one substance involved in opioid-related deaths, accounting for 93% of opioid fatalities in 2024. Cocaine involvement in deaths increased significantly – from 60% in 2023 to 70% in 2024 – and remains the second most common drug involved in fatal overdoses. Xylazine was involved in 42% of fatal overdoses in 2024, up from 32% in 2023.

Vermont last saw a significant decrease in opioid fatalities in 2019, when 115 people died, down from 131 in 2018. However, the COVID-19 pandemic increased many risks related to substance use disorder, including isolation, unemployment and health disparities, leading to record numbers of deaths --244 in 2022 alone. The 2024 decrease also aligns with national trends: on May 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a nearly 27% decline in U.S. drug overdose deaths in 2024, the steepest such drop since 2020.

While the factors contributing to this decline are complex, public health efforts that support prevention, treatment and recovery are helping save lives. This includes strategies such as offering fentanyl test strips and the statewide naloxone distribution program, which helps ensure people have access to life-saving medication. The Health Department distributed more than 70,000 doses of naloxone to community partners in 2024.

The Health Department said the new overdose data reflects the work of a vast network of partners across the state to expand access to community-level prevention, recovery and treatment services, including through the hub-and-spoke system of care and its strong foundation among Vermont’s primary care providers. While there is still more work to be done, Health officials thanked primary care providers, other clinical providers, syringe services providers, recovery resources, public safety and EMS responders and other health care partners for their vital role in this work.

Officials also emphasized that outreach and resources remain critical through campaigns such as KnowOD, and VTHelplink, a free and confidential support and referral service, available 24/7.

“Vermont’s communities know the lasting toll the opioid epidemic has taken in our state,” Interim Health Commissioner Julie Arel said. "Seeing this decline in overdose deaths is heartening, but we can’t take our foot off the gas. We must continue to make our systems of prevention, treatment and recovery stronger so that we can meet the needs of people struggling with substance use disorder and build safer, healthier communities for all."

Read the 2024 Fatal Opioid Overdoses Among Vermonters Report here.

# # #

Your Reporting Can Help Prevent An Overdose: Visit the Health Department News Room under ‘Media Resources’ for a toolkit of overdose prevention resources.

About the Department of Health - We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.
Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

adm-kyle.casteel Mon, 05/19/2025 - 08:52

Early Wildlife Vaccine Drop to Help Prevent the Spread of Rabies

Thu, 01 May 2025 17:54:40 +0000

Early Wildlife Vaccine Drop to Help Prevent the Spread of Rabies

For Immediate Release: May 1, 2025

Media Contacts:

Owen Montgomery | USDA, Wildlife Services

802-272-1072
[email protected]">[email protected]

Tanya Espinosa | USDA, Legislative and Public Affairs

301-851-4092

[email protected]">[email protected]

Kyle Casteel │ Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280

[email protected]">[email protected]

Early Wildlife Vaccine Drop to Help Prevent the Spread of Rabies
Distribution of rabies vaccine bait will begin May 5

WATERBURY, VT – The U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services, in coordination with the Vermont Department of Health, will conduct a special spring rabies vaccine bait drop beginning May 5 to help combat rising rabies rates in wildlife.

The early distribution will deliver approximately 350,000 units of oral rabies vaccine bait in areas of Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans and Washington Counties. Officials say that the increased frequency of bait drops will help slow the spread of the rabies virus among wildlife, but that it takes time for enough animals to become immune.

“Rabies cases have been on the rise in Caledonia, Chittenden and Franklin Counties over the past several years,” said Natalie Kwit, state public health veterinarian with the Health Department. “When eaten by wild animals, the vaccine bait helps prevent the spread of rabies, protecting people and domestic animals who may come into contact with them.”

The spring bait drop, now in its third consecutive year, comes in addition to an annual bait drop that occurs in August. During the bait drops, rabies vaccine – in the form of a sweet-smelling oral bait that is attractive to raccoons and skunks – will be dropped from low-flying airplanes in rural areas, by helicopter in suburban areas, and placed by hand from slow-moving vehicles in residential areas.

Without treatment, rabies is fatal to both humans and animals. The virus is spread primarily through the bite of an infected animal. In Vermont, rabies is most often detected in raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats and woodchucks. Pets and livestock can also get the disease if they have not been vaccinated for rabies.

Since March of 2022, rabies has expanded into Chittenden, Franklin, and Caledonia Counties, where 95 animals have tested positive for rabies— 58 raccoons, 21 skunks, eight bats, three foxes, three woodchucks, a bobcat, and a rabbit. Prior to this outbreak, no rabid land mammals were detected from these counties since 2017.

The vaccine bait packs are not poisonous and are not harmful to people, pets, or wildlife. If you find a bait pack, please don’t touch it unless necessary. Leave the bait undisturbed so it can be eaten by wildlife. If the bait must be moved, use gloves or a plastic bag. If your pet eats a bait pack, or if a child brings one home, let officials know by calling the Vermont Rabies Hotline at 1-800-4-RABIES (1-800-472-2437) or call the toll-free number printed on the bait.

If you see a sick or strange-behaving wild or stray animal, or if you are concerned about a rabies exposure, call the Vermont Rabies Hotline (1-800-4-RABIES).
If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound very well with soap and water and contact your health care provider as soon as possible.
If your pet or farm animal was bitten by a wild or stray animal that might have rabies, contact your veterinarian. State law requires dogs and cats to be vaccinated for rabies — even barn cats. Rabies almost never occurs in vaccinated animals. Always feed pets inside the house and keep them indoors at night. If they are outdoors during the day, keep them on a leash or in an enclosed space. Pets that roam free are more likely to be exposed to rabies.
Do not touch or pick up wild or stray animals – even baby animals – or try to make them into pets. You can’t tell if an animal has rabies just by looking at it.

“Not only can you put yourself or your family at risk for rabies or other diseases, interacting with young wildlife may result in the animal being orphaned, or needing to be tested for rabies, which requires it to be humanely euthanized,” Kwit said. “So, for their sake, leave wildlife in the wild.”

For more information, including a list of towns where the bait drop will take place, see our Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Fact Sheet.

To learn more about rabies in Vermont, visit HealthVermont.gov/Rabies

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Translated Information – Print, video and audio resources are translated into many of the languages used in Vermont. Visit HealthVermont.gov/Translations for searchable tables of documents in each of the nine languages – including about preventing illness, healthy homes, and staying safe and healthy during extreme events like storms, power outages, hurricanes, and flooding.

About the Department of Health

We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.

Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

adm-kyle.casteel Thu, 05/01/2025 - 13:54

Vermonters Can Dispose of Leftover Medication Safely on National Rx Take Back Day

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:20:42 +0000

Vermonters Can Dispose of Leftover Medication Safely on National Rx Take Back Day

For Immediate Release: April 23, 2025

Media Contact: Kyle Casteel – Media Lead
Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280 │ [email protected]">[email protected]

Vermonters Can Dispose of Leftover Medication Safely on National Rx Take Back Day

WATERBURY, VT — Get a jumpstart on your spring cleaning while protecting your family and the environment by disposing of unused, unwanted and expired medications safely and easily this Saturday, April 26, at more than 30 locations throughout the state. The event is part of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized each spring and fall by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in partnership with the Vermont Department of Health, alongside state and local law enforcement.

Vermonters can get rid of leftover prescription and over-the-counter drugs responsibly by bringing them to a community drop-off site between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Find a drop-off site near you by visiting dea.gov/takebackday.

“Keeping unwanted or expired medication around can be risky, especially for kids and pets,” said Health Department Deputy Commissioner Kelly Dougherty, who oversees drug and alcohol programs for the state. “But flushing medications at home or tossing them in the trash can go on to contaminate waterways and harm wildlife. It’s better for all of us when prescription drugs are handed over to professionals for safe disposal.”

Collected medications are securely gathered in one place, briefly stored, then transported out of state by the DEA and incinerated. Previous Take Back Day events in Vermont have disposed of more than 3 tons of unwanted medications.

In addition to the twice-yearly Take Back Day sites, people can dispose of medication throughout the year by using a convenient disposal kiosk at locations statewide, or by ordering a free Medication Mail-Back Envelope from the Health Department.

Vermonters are encouraged to take basic steps to ensure medication is used as intended, and safely disposed of when no longer needed:

LOCK ─ Store your medications in a lock box or locked medicine cabinet.

DROP ─ Drop off unused medication at a kiosk at your local pharmacy or police station.

MAIL ─ Or mail unused medication in free, a pre-paid envelope.

For more information about how to safely store and dispose of medications, visit healthvermont.gov/doyourpart.

# # #

Translated Information – Print, video and audio resources are translated into many of the languages used in Vermont. Visit HealthVermont.gov/Translations for searchable tables of documents in each of the nine languages – including about preventing illness, healthy homes, and staying safe and healthy during extreme events like storms, power outages, hurricanes, and flooding.

adm-kyle.casteel Wed, 04/23/2025 - 13:20

New Study Shows Most Vermonters Report Good Health

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:29:42 +0000

New Study Shows Most Vermonters Report Good Health

For Immediate Release: April 15, 2025

Media Contact: Kyle Casteel – Media Lead
Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280 │ [email protected]" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">[email protected]

New Study Shows Most Vermonters Report Good Health
Economic, Income and Social Barriers Still Impactful

WATERBURY, VT — Newly released data from the Department of Health shows that most adults in Vermont report they are in good health, but that education and income levels, disabilities and other factors can lead to stark differences in people’s health.

This data helps state officials and partners monitor trends and prioritize efforts to improve the health of all Vermonters. It is collected in the 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Report, an annual Health Department survey of adults that tracks health-related behaviors, chronic health conditions and use of preventive services.

Overall, most Vermont adults report good to excellent general health, with only 14% of people reporting fair or poor health – similar to the previous year. Vermonters report better health than the U.S. overall, where 19% report fair or poor health.

However, the Vermont data shows certain groups are at higher risk: A quarter (25%) of Vermont adults living in homes with incomes of $50,000 or less say they have poor health, and 21% of adults with a high school education or less say the same.

Health Department officials say while the overall picture is good news, the data continues to support the department’s focus on working across organizations and agencies to reduce health disparities.

“Health isn't just based on decisions we as individuals make at the grocery store or the doctor's office, it's also about the resources we have access to and the communities we live in," said Interim Health Commissioner Julie Arel. "This data reinforces our commitment to extend the opportunity for a healthy life to every person who lives in Vermont."

The survey reveals similar trends in other areas, including delaying health care due to cost, poor mental health, disability, cardiovascular disease and COPD, diabetes and prediabetes, exercise habits, cigarette smoking, BMI-defined obesity, some vaccine rates, and other measures. The gap in health outcomes between Vermont adults with a disability and those without a disability is also significant: Adults with a disability are nearly six times more likely to report fair or poor general health and nearly four times more likely to report poor mental health.

However, the new report also shows positive changes in health behaviors over the last decade, indicating that Vermont adults are taking steps to reduce health risks.

More 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Highlights:

77% of Vermont adults report going to a routine doctor visit in the last year, almost a 10% increase since 2014 (68%).
Vermont adults are more likely to meet aerobic physical activity recommendations than U.S. adults (67% vs. 60%). Adults with less education or lower income and those with a disability are less likely to meet these recommendations.
59% of Vermont adults 50+ have had a shingles vaccine. This is almost two times higher than the Vermont rate in 2014 (30%) and statistically higher than the U.S. rate (44%).
Almost a quarter of Vermont adults report using cannabis (24%), but the rate of driving after cannabis use is down compared to 2016 (19% vs. 31%).
Six in 10 Vermont adults had any alcohol in the past month (61%). This is higher than the U.S. rate of 52% of adults. Reported alcohol use increases with education level and household income level.

Health officials are also encouraging Vermonters who are selected to participate in the survey, which is active year-round. The Health Department interviews more than 6,000 adult Vermonters selected randomly for the BRFSS. All respondents are asked a uniform set of questions and results are weighted to represent the adult population of the state.

If you receive a phone call on behalf of the Vermont Department of Health about participating in a survey and want to check to see if it is legitimate or have questions about the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, please call 800-869-2871 or email [email protected]" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">[email protected].

Visit HealthVermont.gov/HealthEquity to learn more about the Health Department’s work to support the health of every person who lives in Vermont.

Visit Vermont211.org for anyone in Vermont looking to connect with community support services related to health, wellness, caretaking and crisis support.

###

Translated Information – Print, video and audio resources are translated into many of the languages used in Vermont. Visit HealthVermont.gov/Translations for searchable tables of documents in each of the nine languages – including about preventing illness, healthy homes, and staying safe and healthy during extreme events like storms, power outages, hurricanes, and flooding.

About the Department of Health
We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters. Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

adm-kyle.casteel Tue, 04/15/2025 - 09:29

Know the Health Risks When Raising Backyard Birds

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:28:56 +0000

Know the Health Risks When Raising Backyard Birds

For Immediate Release: March 25, 2025

Media Contacts: 

Kyle Casteel │ Vermont Department of Health

802-316-2117 / [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]
 

Scott Waterman | Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

802-622-4662 / [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]

Know the Health Risks When Raising Backyard Birds
Even clean and healthy-looking poultry can carry harmful germs

WATERBURY, VT –  As warmer weather and peeping baby chicks mark the springtime return of migrating wild birds and backyard flocks, state health and agriculture officials are encouraging people to keep themselves and their feathered friends healthy.

Domestic poultry kept for producing eggs or meat can carry harmful bacteria and viruses, including Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli and avian influenza (bird flu), that can make people sick. Children younger than 5 years old, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to get severe illness from the germs poultry can carry. Knowing how to protect your birds can keep you and your family safer from these health risks.  

“Raising baby poultry like chicks, ducklings and goslings in your backyard can offer many benefits, such as fresh eggs, opportunities to connect with nature, and education for children and families,” said Dr. Natalie Kwit, the state’s public health veterinarian. “But these animals can carry germs that make people sick, so it's important to take steps to stay healthy — like washing hands after any contact with birds, their eggs, and areas where birds live or roam."

Wild birds can be a source of viruses, potentially infecting domestic poultry and other animals. The H5N1 bird flu virus is most commonly spread to domestic poultry through direct contact with infected waterfowl like ducks and geese, or their droppings. While waterfowl can carry the H5N1 bird flu virus without becoming sick, it is often fatal for domestic poultry. While these viruses usually do not infect people, the risk is higher for people who work with infected poultry or dairy cattle. Since 2022, there have been five backyard flocks impacted by H5N1 in Vermont. There have been no human or dairy cattle cases of H5N1 bird flu in Vermont or any northeastern states.

Whether you are building your first coop, are a seasoned poultry owner, or are just visiting a farm or county fair, take these precautions to protect yourself, your family and your flock:

General Precautions

Wash your hands with soap and hot water after touching live poultry, their eggs or objects in the area where they live or roam.
Supervise children around poultry, and make sure they wash their hands thoroughly after interacting with birds.
Don’t kiss or snuggle backyard poultry. 
Collect eggs regularly and throw away any cracked ones. Clean eggs with fine sandpaper, a brush, or a cloth before putting them in the refrigerator.
Keep backyard poultry and items used to care for them outside and away from areas where food or drinks are prepared, served, stored, or where dishes are cleaned.
Don’t eat or drink in areas where poultry live or roam.
Set aside a pair of shoes to wear while tending to poultry and keep those shoes outside.
Stay outdoors when cleaning any equipment or materials used to raise or care for poultry, such as cages or food and water containers.
Clean the coop, floor, nests and perches regularly.

Additional H5N1 Bird Flu Precautions

Keep your flock and your family away from wild waterfowl like ducks and geese and their droppings. Ensure your birds do not share a water source with wild waterfowl.
Do not touch dead wild or domestic birds. If you need to touch them, wear protective gear.
Report dead birds if the cause is unknown or there is a suspicion of H5N1 bird flu. You can call the State Veterinarian at 802-828-2421 or the USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593.

Anyone involved with poultry production – from small backyard coops to large commercial producers – should review their biosecurity plans and activities to ensure the health of their birds. If you have concerns about your flock, contact your veterinarian or call 802-828-2421. 

Learn more about backyard poultry safety from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For more about poultry biosecurity and avian flu preparedness, visit the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets.

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About the Department of Health
We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters. Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @healthvermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

About the Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) facilitates, supports and encourages the growth and viability of agriculture in Vermont while protecting the working landscape, human health, animal health, plant health, consumers and the environment.

adm-kyle.casteel Tue, 03/25/2025 - 08:28

Vermont Department of Health Confirms Case of Measles

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 19:06:11 +0000

Vermont Department of Health Confirms Case of Measles

For Immediate Release: March 11, 2025
Media Contact: Kyle Casteel – Media Lead
Communication Office │ Department of Health
802-863-7280 │ [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]

Vermont Department of Health Confirms Case of Measles
A school-aged child contracted the disease while traveling internationally

WATERBURY, VT — The Vermont Department of Health has confirmed a case of measles in a school-aged child in Lamoille County. The child became sick after returning with their family from traveling internationally in recent days. The risk to the public is believed to be low, as the child has been isolated from most community settings while they have been contagious. Investigation is ongoing.

This is the first case of measles in Vermont in 2025, following two cases in 2024 and two cases in the decade prior, one in 2011 and one in 2018. This case is not related to the three ongoing domestic outbreaks of measles in the United States or to the current measles outbreak in Québec.

The positive test result for measles was confirmed the evening of Monday, March 10. One known site of exposure is at Copley Hospital, where the child was evaluated on Sunday, March 9. Copley Hospital has reached out to known visitors to the Emergency Department during that time. The Health Department is asking anyone who was inside the Emergency Department at Copley Hospital in Morrisville, Vermont between 3:15 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 9 to take the following actions:

Confirm you have evidence of immunity to measles. You can do this by reaching out to your healthcare provider or requesting your vaccination records. In Vermont, you can follow instructions here: https://www.healthvermont.gov/stats/registries/request-vaccine-records.
If you don’t know or can’t confirm if you have immunity to measles, contact the Health Department at 802-863-7240, option 2 as soon as possible for guidance. 
Everyone who was at the Copley Hospital Emergency Department during that time should monitor for any symptoms through Sunday, March 30. Reach out to your health care provider if you develop any symptoms.  DO NOT go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a clinic without first calling to let them know about your symptoms and possible exposure to measles.

To protect patient confidentiality, the Health Department will not release individual personal health information. The department will continue to provide information that may impact broader public health.

The Health Department is also urging people in Vermont to make sure their family is vaccinated against measles – especially children. It’s particularly important if you plan to travel outside of the United States. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases and can be dangerous, especially in children younger than 5 years old. About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles are hospitalized.

About Measles:

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause serious illness.

In the first three months of 2025, the CDC has reported over 200 cases of measles, largely connected to three outbreaks in the United States, which have led to two recent deaths in Texas and New Mexico. 285 cases were reported in the U.S. for all of 2024, compared to 58 cases in 2023. Cases are also rising internationally. Health officials attribute this, in part, to an increase in the number of unvaccinated people, which impacts community immunity.

Symptoms of measles typically begin with a cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a high fever that may spike to more than 104°. A rash of flat spots breaks out on the head and face, then spreads to other parts of the body.

The virus can spread to other people when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The measles virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. People can become infected if they breathe in the germs or touch a contaminated surface and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth.

The virus can be spread from four days before through four days after an infected person develops the rash. This means a person with measles may not know they are infectious for several days.

Anyone with symptoms of measles should stay home, consider wearing a mask around others, and contact their healthcare provider immediately. People who suspect they have measles should not go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a clinic without first calling to let them know about their symptoms. 

There is no treatment for measles. However, it is almost entirely vaccine-preventable. Measles can be prevented with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The Health Department is encouraging people to make sure they are up to date on their measles vaccinations. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure if you or your family have been vaccinated. It is especially important to be protected from measles before traveling outside the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the U.S. Adults are protected from measles if they are fully vaccinated, were born before 1957, or have had a blood test that confirms they are immune. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are unsure if you are protected against measles.

Because measles is so contagious, 95% of a population needs to be immune to limit the spread of the virus effectively. According to 2023-2024 school immunization survey data, 93% of children in Vermont public and independent schools are fully vaccinated against measles before entering kindergarten. This data doesn't include children who are homeschooled or not yet enrolled in school.

For more information about measles, visit HealthVermont.gov/Measles. 

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Translated Information – Print, video and audio resources are translated into many of the languages used in Vermont. Visit HealthVermont.gov/Translations for searchable tables of documents in each of the nine languages – including about preventing illness, healthy homes, and staying safe and healthy during extreme events like storms, power outages, hurricanes, and flooding.

About the Department of Health
We have been the state's public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.

Visit HealthVermont.gov ─ Join us @HealthVermont on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

adm-kyle.casteel Tue, 03/11/2025 - 15:06