See public health news releases from recent years.
In 2025, public health faced both new and returning challenges. The Health Department responded to measles cases during a major outbreak across North America, confirmed Vermont’s first-ever case of Jamestown Canyon virus, and continued to monitor the risks of H5N1 bird flu. Our teams worked to make sure Vermonters could get the vaccines they need, expanded care for people with substance use disorder, and strengthened partnerships with neighboring states. We also said goodbye to Dr. Mark Levine, who led Vermont through the COVID-19 pandemic, and welcomed our new Health Commissioner, Dr. Rick Hildebrant.
The Health Department supported the state’s preparedness for a once-in-a-generation total solar eclipse that brought over 150,000 visitors to Vermont, responded to infectious diseases including historically rare confirmed cases of measles and Eastern equine encephalitis, and provided resources and guidance to aid in recovery from a second consecutive year of disastrous floods. Vermont also marked a nation-leading decline in deaths caused by opioid overdose, and noted declines in tobacco and alcohol use among pregnant people and young Vermonters.
For the first time since 2020, COVID-19 was the subject of few news releases, though prevention and vaccination messaging continued. Tick and mosquito-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis returned as seasonal concerns. Health issues related to extreme heat and cold, air quality, flooding and other environmental and social justice challenges were reflected in the public health response to climate change. The ongoing substance use and opioid crisis was marked by innovations in prevention, treatment and recovery. The Health Department, with state and partner organizations also delivered on tools and programs to make Vermont an Age Strong and age-friendly place for all.
COVID-19 further evolved, and public health work transitioned to become similar to other infectious diseases. Guidance was streamlined, state-run testing sites closed as at-home testing became prevalent, and more COVID-19 vaccines became available. The Health Department also responded to a new infectious disease outbreak of mpox. Our work with other state agencies to reduce lead in school drinking water was a success, and we continued supporting older Vermonters through various programs.