MONTPELIER — Gov. Phil Scott, Health Commissioner Mark Levine and other top administration officials plan to quarantine following potential exposure to COVID-19, the governor’s office announced Tuesday evening.
According to the administration, a person who took part in the governor’s two most recent press briefings — on Jan. 15 and Jan. 19 — tested positive for the virus. The person was identified only as a “contractor who provides services” at the twice-weekly events.
Approximately 17 people attended each of the briefings, including cabinet officials, reporters, security and interpreters, according to the governor’s office. The events are held in an auditorium in Montpelier’s Pavilion Building following safety protocols.
Neither Scott nor Levine have been vaccinated, according to Scott press secretary Jason Maulucci. The two previously said that they would wait their turn for the shots.
State contact tracers are investigating the event, and the governor’s office has informed those who attended the briefings of their possible exposure. Scott, Levine and other officials will be tested for COVID-19 as they quarantine, the governor’s office said.
Scott “will continue to fulfill all of his duties, including leading Vermont’s pandemic response, while working remotely,” his office said.