News

Maine CDC head says rural areas need more COVID-19 testing

Maine CDC head says rural areas need more COVID-19 testing

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Maine’s rural areas need better access to COVID-19 testing, the head of the state’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention said.

The percent positivity rate in some of Maine’s rural counties is much higher than it is in more densely populated areas such as Cumberland County. Federal data show the percent positivity rate in Cumberland is about 2% while in rural Somerset County it’s more than 9%.

Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Nirav Shah said Thursday that’s a product of lack of testing. He said the state is working to get more tests to rural corners of the state. Maine has the lowest population density in New England.

“Not enough testing happening in those parts of the state. We’re focusing on making community level testing more accessible,” Shah said.

Federal authorities have said the entire state is the site of high transmission of the virus.

Latest Headlines

1 day ago in Local

Graham Platner campaign manager resigns after controversial posts online resurface

Campaign Director Genevieve McDonald resigned from her post as campaign director yesterday, saying that the views expressed by Platner weren't values she could stand behind.

2 days ago in Local

Judge sentences Maine man to 38 years for the killing of his stepson

An Oxford man was sentenced Friday to 38 years behind bars for the killing of his stepson.

2 days ago in Local

Wardens offer $3,000 reward after lynx found dead in Aroostook County

Maine Game Wardens are offering $3,000 for information about the illegal killing of a Canada lynx.

3 days ago in Local

High Trails at Baxter State Park Closed for Season

The closure includes Owl Trail, which is the northernmost section of the Appalachian Trail

3 days ago in Local

New York Man Tracked Down For Maine Murder

Maine State Police say the investigation is ongoing.