2025 News Releases

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.