Burlington Positive Test Rate Falls, Town Remains High-RIsk

BURLINGTON, MA — Burlington's positive test rate fell from last week's figure, according to the statewide town-by-town data released Thursday. But the case count grew and the town was again designated high risk for the virus.

The town's two-week positive test rate fell to 7.5 percent, from 7.7 percent last week. The town had 260 cases over the last two weeks, up from 226.

The latest cases bring Burlington to 1,261, according to state data.

There were 3,767 tests over two weeks, of which 282 were positive. Testing increased significantly relative to the period between Christmas and New Year's Day.

Burlington began vaccinating first responders Tuesday.

The Massachusetts Department of Health designated 229 cities and towns as high risk for the coronavirus Thursday, up from 219 the week before. But the statewide positive test rate fell to 6.7 percent, down from 8.7 percent on Jan. 1.

The statewide positive test rate is still slightly above the level a month ago, 6.2 percent.

The seven-day average of hospitalized patients was 2,226, down from 2,386 a week prior.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.