Vermont Business Magazine Flags are lowered to half-staff today in honor of all 61 Vermonters lost to COVID-19, as they are on the 19th of each month. The 19th was selected because the first two COVID-related deaths in Vermont were on March 19. Cases across the US and in Vermont have been growing in both number and deaths. After not having a single COVID death since July, the Vermont Department of Health has reported three in the last two weeks, with two of those in the last two days, both of which have been from Rutland County. Vermont set a new record today as the VDH reported 148 new cases of COVID-19. The Washington County outbreak continues to grow with 50 new cases.
WCAX is reporting that there are now three deaths over the past days at Rutland Healthcare and Rehab, bringing the unofficial tally to 62.
Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement:
“On April 19, I ordered the flags to fly at half-staff on the 19th of each month to honor those who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
“This month we do so amidst rising case counts across the state, increased transmission and growing concern for the health and safety of our most vulnerable neighbors. Sadly, we’ve now reached the grim milestone of 250,000 deaths nationwide.
“And the group we remember today has grown by three this month. My thoughts are with their families, communities and the healthcare providers who cared for them in this difficult time.
“Today, as we remember those we’ve lost, let’s honor them by renewing our commitment to protect one another, to support one another and to listen to what the science and the data are telling us. If we do, we’ll get through these difficult times faster, and recover stronger, than any other state.”
Source: Montpelier, Vt. – Governor 11.19.2020