COVID-19

Beginning in 2024, Maine will no longer require healthcare workers to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

The administration is distributing $25 million to help address challenges such as worker recruitment and retention.

MaineHealth says masks will be required under certain circumstances, such as interactions with patients who have COVID.

Lawmakers heard testimony on bills that target vaccine mandates, and those specifically for COVID-19 vaccines. Debunked claims that were spread during the pandemic became a central feature of the hearing.

50% of Mainers 65 and over who have gotten their Covid booster, the first state to hit that milestone.

The long-term forecast will depend on bringing in more workers from other states and countries, and improving the skills of the existing workforce.

In the coming days, the U.S. CDC is expected to grant final authorization of new COVID booster shots that target the omicron variant. The Maine CDC expects more than 20,000 doses will be available next week.

COVID-19 is now the third leading cause of death in Maine, after cancer and heart disease.

The Maine Republican’s office said she was experiencing “mild symptoms” after testing positive in the late afternoon and would isolate and work remotely in accordance with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.