Respiratory Illness Activity in Vermont

Explore the latest data on influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity in Vermont.

This dashboard shows how illness activity is changing over time, using information from wastewater testing, emergency visits, hospitalizations, reported outbreaks and laboratory testing. Together, these data help us understand which viruses are circulating and how they are affecting Vermonters.

Looking for data on seasonal vaccine coverage? Visit our Vaccine Dashboard.

What does the dashboard show?

Explore five types of data by clicking on a tab at the top of the dashboard:

• Wastewater: Levels of viruses found in wastewater from participating communities. These data can help identify changes in illness activity, including among people who do not get tested or seek medical care.
• Emergency visits: The percentage of visits to Vermont emergency departments related to flu, COVID-19, RSV or respiratory illness overall.
• Hospitalizations: Weekly rates of hospital admissions among people with a positive test for flu, COVID-19 or RSV.
• Laboratory testing: Positive tests and the percentage of tests that are positive for flu, COVID-19 or RSV at participating Vermont laboratories.
• Outbreaks: Respiratory illness outbreaks reported in schools, childcare programs, nursing homes and other group settings.

The dashboard is updated weekly on Wednesdays and shows data through the most recent Saturday.

Understanding the data

Look at trends across several weeks. A single week’s results may change because of reporting delays, small numbers or other factors. Looking at several weeks and more than one type of data gives a clearer picture of illness activity.

Activity levels help put the numbers in context. Some sections describe activity as very low, low, moderate, high or very high. These levels use different measures for each illness and type of data.

The dashboard does not count every infection. Not everyone gets tested or seeks medical care, and some data sources cover only participating communities or facilities. Low activity does not mean there is no risk of getting sick.

Recent data may change. Results for previous weeks may be updated as more information becomes available.

Each season on the dashboard covers 12 months, beginning in the fall when cold and flu activity typically increases. We track a full year because COVID-19 and some other respiratory viruses spread year-round.

For details about each data source, activity levels and limitations, view the Data Notes on each tab.

Use the data to help protect yourself and others

While the data don't show how many people are actually sick or needing medical care, consistently high or increasing virus levels may mean that there is an increased risk of infection. Take simple steps to protect yourself and others. Wash your hands often, wear a mask in crowded places, stay up to date on vaccines, and be extra careful around people at higher risk of serious illness.

Learn more about preventing respiratory illnesses and flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines.