COVID-19 News and Updates
Hello all,
Nina Duggan here with the latest COVID-19 news and updates. This week we are elaborating on the second round of COVID tests from the government, as well as the surges in COVID abroad and the recent funding cuts to U.S. COVID-19 program spending.
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If you or anyone you know has any questions or concerns about COVID-19 or the available vaccines please don’t hesitate to send me an email, or to call or text our COVID-19 Peer Support line at 207-271-6023.
I am always happy to answer any questions, and to help you or those you know locate a vaccination center.
COVID Communication:
Second Round of COVID Tests Available
While we remain in a nationwide lull of COVID cases, it is important to note that we will almost certainly see another surge before the end of the year is out. That being said, governmental funding for COVID-19 testing and other programming is being cut as of the next few months (elaborated on below).
At present, households can still order free testing kits from the government (link provided), and may order a second round of tests if they ordered previously (or the full eight if they did not). These tests have a long shelf-life and experts recommend keeping them on hand as a precaution against future surges.
Links and Sources: NPR Reporting on Second Round of Testing, USPS Link to Order Tests
COVID in the News:
State of COVID-19 in Maine
Cases and hospitalizations continue to remain low throughout the state. As of today, statewide there are 96 hospitalizations due to COVID-19 with 20 individuals in critical care.
Links and sources: Bangor Daily COVID Tracker
U.S. cuts funding for COVID-19 prevention and treatment
Due to an impasse in Congress regarding funding allocation, funding to several important programs established to combat COVID-19 in the United States will be cut throughout April and May, leading to concern among healthcare professionals. In early April, all funding towards testing, treatment, and vaccination will be entirely eliminated in the United States. In addition, this reduction in funding hampers the United States’ ability to secure further booster doses, purchase monoclonal antibody treatments, purchase treatments of preventative treatments for immunocompromised individuals, respond to future surges, and other general efforts surrounding COVID-19.
Links and sources: White House Release on Reduced COVID Funding, New York Times Article on Congressional Impasse Resulting in Reduced COVID Funding, ABC News Coverage on 1stRound of Cuts to COVID Funding
Examination of BA.2 and the surges in Europe and Asia
As COVID-19 cases surge in both Europe and Asia, experts warn we could potentially see another surge in the coming months. It is as of yet unclear whether or not the surges abroad are because of the new sub-variant of Omicron BA.2 and the U.S. could see the same, or if these locations are now being hit with Omicron surges of their own following the broad relaxation of COVID mitigation practices.
COVID cases in the U.S. continue to decrease at present, and it looks as though we have hit the low-point in our lull of outbreaks. The vaccines are still our most effective tool against hospitalizations and death from COVID-19, including all known variants, and it is crucial that we increase our rate of vaccination. At this point the United States has a much lower rate of vaccination and general COVID protection measures than most of the countries currently experiencing surges.
Links and sources: ABC News Coverage of Surge in Europe, New York Times Article Discussing U.S. Preparedness for Next Surge
Thanks again everyone for checking in this week. Stay safe, and remember to take care of each other. ~ Nina
Nina Duggan is Healthy Acadia’s COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Project Coordinator. They share weekly updates about COVID-19 in the state of Maine and beyond, along with resources you may find useful on testing, vaccination, and best practices in preventative measures.
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If you or anyone you know have questions or concerns about COVID-19 or the available vaccines please call or text our COVID-19 Peer Support Line at 207-271-6023, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.