Vermont is ahead of the vaccination curve compared to the rest of the United States. The Green Mountain State recently reached a new milestone, with 80% of its eligible residents having received at least one vaccine dose to protect against COVID-19.
In reaction, the state has dropped all COVID-19 restrictions. Vermont’s state of emergency, which ends June 15, will not be renewed, Governor Phil Scott announced June 14.
“Today, I’m very proud to announce that Vermont has now become the first state in the nation to vaccinate 80% of its 12 and over population,” Scott said.
The state exceeded President Biden’s goal of reaching a 70% vaccination rate among the U.S. adult population by the 4th of July holiday. Vermont reported 81.8% of its eligible 18+ population had received at least one vaccine dose. Just over 43% of the U.S. population at large is vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The percentage of adults with at least one dose is 64.5%, CDC data reveals.
“We said from the very start, and in the face of criticism, that our vaccine strategy would prove to be the most effective in the nation,” Scott said. “That in order to protect the most vulnerable, a simple-to-understand and easy-to-implement age-banded strategy would deliver the best results. Again, not only do we lead the United States, but Vermont is now a global leader in vaccinations to defeat COVID-19.”
All of Vermont’s COVID-19 restrictions are rescinded, unless there is a federal restriction, such as federal transportation and travel requirements. The change in policy comes as the number of deaths and cases in the U.S. from COVID-19 have continued to fall.
Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."