Covid-19 cases on the rise

Covid-19 cases are once again on the rise in Dartmouth, with the state’s latest report showing 76 residents testing positive for the virus in the last week.

According to state data, Dartmouth had a daily average incidence rate of 21.4 per 100,000 people and a 6.75% positivity rate. The last time virus transmission was at that rate was in February.

Cases have especially skyrocketed in Dartmouth’s public schools. According to state data, the school district reported 94 cases between May 5 and 11 — 75 students and 19 staff members. This represents a nearly 80% increase from the week before.

Not all students and staff who are in the town’s public schools live in Dartmouth.

Hospitalization, meanwhile, remains relatively low. 

There are 39 people hospitalized in Bristol County’s five hospitals, with four patients confirmed in any of the hospital’s Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit census, according to state data.

The increase comes as vaccination rates continue to stagnate. According to state data as of May 12, 66% of Dartmouth residents had received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine — the same rate since February.

Meanwhile, 59% of residents are fully vaccinated. 

People aged five or older who live, work or study in Massachusetts are eligible to be vaccinated against Covid-19. Those over the age of 18 can sign up to receive any vaccine, but those ages 5 to 17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine.

Massachusetts residents who test positive for Covid-19 and have mild to moderate symptoms can now access a free telehealth program to see if they’re eligible for a treatment pill, which will also be free.