Dartmouth ‘gray’ as no new Covid cases reported

Jun 29, 2021

For the first time since the pandemic began, Dartmouth reports no new cases and has now been designated “gray” in the state’s Covid-19 risk reporting — the lowest risk level.

At a June 28 School Committee meeting, Public Health Director Chris Michaud noted that no new cases were reported in town in the last week — with the last positive Covid test happening two weeks ago.

“Transmission has been low,’’ he said.

According to state data, the town has a positivity rate of 0.86% and an average daily incidence rate of 1.7 per 100,000 residents.

Prior to being reclassified “gray” on June 24, the town had been categorized “green” by the state since May 20. 

The designation change comes nearly one month after Gov. Charlie Baker lifted Massachusetts’ remaining Covid restrictions, citing the state’s relatively high vaccination rate.

Although Dartmouth has multiple vaccine clinics, town’s vaccination rate lags behind that of many other communities. According to the state’s June 24 data, only 52% of Dartmouth residents have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. That amounts to just 12,187 people. Only 47% of residents are fully vaccinated against the virus.

In contrast, larger municipalities like Attleboro and Taunton have first dose rates of 58% and 55% respectively.

The Circuit City location continues to be available for vaccinations until its July 13 closure. Walk-in appointments are available, but registration is still an option. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit vaxfinder.mass.gov.

Those interested in getting vaccinated can also sign up for shots at the old VF Outlet through Southcoast Health as slots are available, either through their MyChart account or at www.southcoast.org/covid-19-vaccine-scheduling, which does not require a MyChart account.

Southcoast is also offering walk-up vaccines at various locations. 

The Covid-19 vaccine is free, and individuals do not need insurance or an ID to get the vaccine.

Since the pandemic began, there have been more than 3600 positive cases in Dartmouth and 55 virus-related deaths.