News from Emergency Management

COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic

Much has changed in the previous seven months. Effective June 15, 2021, Governor Scott terminated the COVID-19 State of Emergency determination for the State of Vermont. In August, the Delta variant of COVID 19 brought increasing numbers of COVID infections to Vermont, with what was then a staggering 487 new cases in one day on Thursday, November 4, 2021. Then, as 2021 drew to a close, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 brought even higher numbers of infections with 2188 new cases on January 6, 2022 along with 90 in the hospital.
Being fully vaccinated and boostered is an essential element of preventing the spread of COVID-19. As we continue to learn about this disease, there is now confirmation that wearing an N-95 or a KN-95 mask, or a surgical mask in indoor spaces is also a practice which can help prevent the spread of COVID-19, for vaccinated and unvaccinated alike.
As a result, the Select Board issued a mask mandate on January 4, 2022, which requires any person, whether an employee, a customer, or a visitor, who enters a public or privately owned building that is open to the public must wear a face mask over their nose and mouth while inside the building-regardless of their vaccination status.
Governor Scott has declined to issue a new State of Emergency Order, but strongly recommends that all who are eligible get fully vaccinated, and take precautions against infection including

wearing a mask in indoor spaces - the recommendation now it to wear an N-95 or KN-95 mask or surgical mask, rather than a cloth mask.
staying home if you feel sick.
getting tested if you have any symptoms, have been in close contact with an infected person, or have taken part in activities that could put you at risk, such as large gatherings or travel
avoiding large gatherings
regular handwashing or hand sanitation

Many thanks to all to who are taking precautions to help avoid the further spread of COVID 19. We are all in this together.
In addition, be aware that COVID can be spread by and TO both unvaccinated and vaccinated folks and that the length of time you are in close contact with others who are infected increases the possibility of you becoming infected. So, consider carefully, whether it would be wiser to not attend indoor events like concerts, dances, weddings, educational presentations, and others.
If you are still wondering, "Why wear a mask?" Check out this video demonstration from the National Institute of Health reported by the New England Journal of Medicine. Wearing a mask helps protect you and others in our community from becoming infected with COVID-19.
We seek to provide you with current information to assist you in remaining healthy during this pandemic.

The Vermont Health Department's COVID-19 web-page is updated regularly. Please consult this page often.
You can find advice from the Center for Disease Control about what to do if you or a family member is sick.
You'll find links to more information on Plainfield's COVID-19 Information page to help guide you,

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