How do you collect the data presented in the dashboard?
The Health Department receives lab results for COVID-19. When positive, epidemiologists and other public health officials work with the doctor to provide additional details, as well as interview the person. We ask questions about exposures, symptoms, and contacts the person may have had while they were ill.
Why do the number of new cases from a few days ago sometimes change?
The Health Department wants to ensure we provide the most timely data possible. Therefore, it may be subject to change as we learn new information. To share data quickly, we post it daily and sometimes we have to go back and update it for accuracy. The Health Department is committed to providing the most accurate data possible.
Why do county totals change?
Sometimes the Health Department receives positive results with little to no contact information. We use the county where the person sought care if the person's residence is unknown. When we learn more about the case, we then update the county appropriately. Vermont residents are included in the Vermont county where they reside. People who tested positive for COVID-19 in Vermont while visiting or seeking care are included in the Vermont county where they were identified.
How are you counting the total number of tested?
The total number of tested is the total number of people tested in Vermont either by the Public Health Laboratory, a hospital lab, or a reference lab, and reported to the Health Department. This is the number of individuals tested, not the number of specimens.
Has the Health Department made the dashboard data sources available on the Vermont Open Geodata Portal?
Yes, we have made the source data that feed the dashboard available: https://geodata.vermont.gov/search?q=covid (link is external)
All data are compiled by the Vermont Department of Health, and are preliminary and subject to change. Case information is updated daily by 11:00 a.m., reflecting counts as of end of previous day.
Vermonters Who Have Tested Positive for COVID-19 by Town
This data reflects lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Vermont residents, by town of residence. Residents of a long-term care facility or inmates at a correctional facility are reflected in the town of their facility when they were tested.
In compliance with both federal and Vermont law, to prevent disclosure of an individual’s protected health information, a range is used for towns that have fewer than six cases.
Map is updated weekly. Last update: 4/27/20
