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Real-time Maine Coronavirus Updates: Portland City Council votes to extend coronavirus emergency proclamation to May 18

Gov. Mills expects to have a state decision as early as Tuesday on whether or not to extend her stay-at-home order.

MAINE, USA — KEY MAINE CORONAVIRUS FACTS

LATEST CORONAVIRUS UPDATES

MONDAY APRIL 27

10:38 p.m.

Portland City Council extends Portland's coronavirus related Emergency Proclamation to May 18th. 

ORIGINAL STORY

2 p.m. update led by Governor Mills

Governor Janet Mills acknowledged the fact that her stay-healthy-at-home order is due to expire Thursday, April 30. She said she continues to consult with the Maine CDC and with others to determine whether or not it will be appropriate to extend it. She said the decision will be based on fact and could come as early as Tuesday. Mills said, as of now, some type of extension "seems likely because it seems warranted."

Mills said she plans to unveil a plan to reopen businesses, organizations, and activities that can operate safely by minimizing in-person interactions between customers and staff. Those that cannot likely won't be able to reopen as early.

"At any point, if the loosening of certain restrictions causes a spike in COVID-19 cases, we'll be closing the door, restrictions will have to be reinstated, and we'll try again," Mills said.

Mills said she hopes to unveil her plan on Tuesday.

Mills said she expects additional guidance from the federal government this week to provide clarity on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program, because it's intended for people who don't typically qualify for state unemployment benefits.

"Our efforts to beat this virus are working, so hold on. If we stay on this path, our numbers should improve and we can start on the road to recovery." Mills said. "I believe in Maine people. I believe we have a bright future. Stay the course and stay safe."

The governor said there will be direction from her administration by early June about whether or not large summer gatherings, such as festivals and fairs, should be held.

1 p.m.

11:45 a.m.

The Maine CDC announced one additional death, bringing the state total to 51.

There are now 1,023 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maine. Of those 1,023 cases, 549 have recovered.

161 people in Maine who have tested positive for COVID-19 have been hospitalized at some point during their illness.

244 of the confirmed cases in Maine are health care workers.

Credit: NCM

9 a.m.

7 a.m.

WEEKEND UPDATE

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TAKE A MOMENT FOR 'A BREATH OF FRESH AIR'

RESOURCES

MAINE CDC BRIEFINGS

Coronavirus, COVID-19 Background 

The official name for the coronavirus is “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes is named “coronavirus disease 2019” or “COVID-19” for short. Coronavirus is a family of viruses, which can infect people and animals. The viruses can cause the common cold or more serious diseases like SARS, MERS, and COVID-19.

The CDC says symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and in some cases sore throat.

The CDC says there are simple steps to take to reduce the possible spread of COVID-19:

  • 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

The Maine Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced on Tuesday, March 10 that they would be holding daily coronavirus briefings with director Dr. Nirav Shah to keep the public up to date on the situation in Maine. 

NEWS CENTER Maine YouTube Coronavirus Playlist

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