COVID-19

U.S. CDC wastewater surveillance shows that levels in the state have increased from 'high' in July to currently 'very high.'

The latest wastewater surveillance data from the U.S. CDC shows that Maine's viral activity is slightly below the national average, but higher than the regional average in the Northeast.

Roughly 40,000 pandemic relief payments issued to Maine residents are unclaimed, and both Governor Janet Mills and state treasurer Henry Beck are urging people to check to see if they missed out.

Across the country, the U.S. Justice Department says it's seized more than $1.4 billion in stolen COVID-19 relief funds and charged more than 3,000 defendants with crimes.

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.