The Coronavirus continues to spread in Maine, with the addition of eight cases that were announced Friday.
There are now 56 total cases, including 44 confirmed cases and 12 presumptive positives, according to Maine CDC director Nirav Shah.
He said there are 35 cases in Cumberland County, by far the most in the state.
Officials said there were 52 cases on Thursday. However, three cases were transferred to other states because those patients don’t live in Maine. And a fourth case initially tested positive at an outside laboratory, but the Maine CDC later determined it to be negative.
The Maine CDC is urging residents with symptoms of the virus to contact their doctor by phone, immediately. They say to call before showing up so they can plan accordingly. These symptoms include mild to moderate fever, cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.
To protect yourself, the Maine CDC urges Mainers to take these steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Stay home while you’re sick and avoid close contact with others
If you have questions about COVID-19, you can dial 211 in Maine, text your zip code to 898-211, or email info@211maine.org.
We will continue to update this story with the latest information.
