Local Coronavirus COVID-19 Resource Center
Since the first testing for COVID-19 in Maine, information and important notices from community and state officials, business owners and educators have flowed to our inboxes at a rapid pace.
So, the Pilot established a resource page, a collection center for all the alerts and vital information our readers need to know.
Innovative solutions, before long, were brought to our attention, easing life for everyone as we moved through the unfamiliar sequestering days.
As Mainers line up to receive their vaccine doses and continue to figure out normalcy, we are sharing information about pandemic recovery as it rolls in.
The latest information will appear at the top of the page, and the top of the subsections appearing within the sidebar.
Stay healthy, keep your distance, wear a mask (or two), and keep your chin up!
Maine’s COVID-19 death toll, again, rises by one
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, April 3, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 745.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.
On Feb. 7, the Maine CDC removed a death from Lincoln County’s total decreasing the amount of countywide deaths from two to one. On Feb. 25, Lincoln County’s death toll rose, once again, from one to two. … Read more
April 3 update: Midcoast adds 11 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 819 cases, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of three new cases since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 721 cases, 27 hospitalizations and… Read more
Islesboro holding vaccination clinic April 12
ISLESBORO — The next scheduled vaccination clinic for Islesboro residents will be Monday, April 12 at the island’s Health Center.
All adults over 18 are eligible for the type of vaccine the facility can safely get delivered to the island.
The Vaccine Clinic will be expanded to accommodate up to 300 persons. Registered persons will be contacted with an appointment time in order of date registration form is submitted.
Everyone is urged to get registered and vaccinated.… Read more
Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by one
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, April 2, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 744.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.
On Feb. 7, the Maine CDC removed a death from Lincoln County’s total decreasing the amount of countywide deaths from two to one. On Feb. 25, Lincoln County’s death toll rose, once again, from one to two. … Read more
April 2 update: Midcoast adds 24 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 2, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 816 cases, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of seven new cases since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 720 cases, 27 hospitalizations and… Read more
Maine places 17th order of COVID-19 vaccines amid acceleration of vaccination timeline
AUGUSTA— The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is preparing to place an order for first doses of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and single doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccine, for 54,790 people, to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S. CDC) and Operation Warp Speed.
This is an increase of 9,590 doses, not counting doses controlled by the Federal government sent… Read more
Mainers 16 and older become eligible for COVID-19 vaccine Wednesday
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Thursday all Maine residents age 16 and older will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine beginning Wednesday, April 7.
The acceleration of Maine’s vaccination timeline by a week and a half comes as Maine is expected to receive a significant increase in vaccine supply from the federal government.
Vaccination for residents age 16 and older had previously been scheduled to begin April 19.
“Maine continues to get as many people… Read more
Labor officials provide April 1 unemployment benefits update
AUGUSTA — For the week ending March 27, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 400 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
In total, approximately 2,400 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.
About 14,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 13,500 weekly certifications… Read more
April 1 update: Midcoast adds 11 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 809 cases, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of three new cases since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 710 cases, 27 hospitalizations and… Read more
IRS recalculating taxes on unemployment benefits; refunds to start in May
WASHINGTON, D.C. — To help taxpayers, the Internal Revenue Service announced Wednesday it will take steps to automatically refund money this spring and summer to people who filed their tax return reporting unemployment compensation before the recent changes made by the American Rescue Plan.
The legislation, signed on March 11, allows taxpayers who earned less than $150,000 in modified adjusted gross income to exclude unemployment compensation up to $20,400 if married filing jointly… Read more
Rockland ferry terminal closed after employee tests positive for COVID-19
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Transportation closed the Maine State Ferry Service Rockland Ferry Terminal Wednesday morning in response to an employee testing positive for COVID-19, according to a news release.
During the building closure, members of the traveling public can still board ferries in Rockland. They will be able to pay their fares upon arrival at the island terminals.
MaineDOT was informed of the test result Wednesday morning and notified coworkers. The… Read more
Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by five
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, March 31, an additional five COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 743.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.
On Feb. 7, the Maine CDC removed a death from Lincoln County’s total decreasing the amount of countywide deaths from two to one. On Feb. 25, Lincoln County’s death toll rose, once again, from one to… Read more
Maine Lobster Festival canceled, again, amid pandemic
ROCKLAND — For the second year in a row, the Maine Lobster Festival will not be held because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival’s board of directors announced.
“The Maine Lobster Festival board believes that the safety of our community, our volunteers and our guests is paramount,” read a statement posted to the festival’s Facebook account. “Because we hold a festival… Read more
March 31 update: Midcoast adds eight new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 31, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 806 cases, 213 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of three new cases and one new recovery since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has… Read more
UPDATE (No more slots available) Lincolnville, North East Mobile Health to hold COVID-19 vaccination clinic April 1
Lincolnville reported March 31 that all the 140 available slots are filled.
In partnership with the Northeast Mobile Health Services, the town’s ambulance service provider, Lincolnville is co-sponsoring a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic for those 50 years of age or older on Thursday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Lincolnville Community Building at 18 Searsmont Road (State Route 173).
As the supply is limited pre-registration is required. Vaccinations will be… Read more
Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, March 30, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 738.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.
On Feb. 7, the Maine CDC removed a death from Lincoln County’s total decreasing the amount of countywide deaths from two to one. On Feb. 25, Lincoln County’s death toll rose, once again, from one to two… Read more
March 30 update: Midcoast adds 12 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 803 cases, 212 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of five new case since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 705 cases, 219… Read more
March 29 update: Midcoast adds 10 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 798 cases, 212 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of one new case since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 700 cases, 219… Read more
Maine Republicans eye changing how governors can apply emergency powers
Republicans are gearing up to challenge Gov. Janet Mills’ emergency powers this week in a battle that some experts and former governors from both parties say is largely political.
The State and Local Government Committee is scheduled on Monday to consider more than a dozen pieces of legislation that would require either legislative approval of certain restrictions proposed by the governor during an emergency or a vote of the Legislature to extend an emergency beyond 30 days. The… Read more
March 28 update: Midcoast records eight new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 797 cases, 212 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of two new cases since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 695 cases, 218… Read more
Gov. Mills: Summer is fast approaching and the finish line is on the horizon
We are working around the clock to get as many people vaccinated against COVID-19 as quickly as possible.
Right now, more than 387,000 people in Maine have gotten their first dose of the vaccine – almost 29 percent of our total population, almost 18 percent fully vaccinated. Two out of three Maine residents 60 and older are now protected with at least one dose. And Maine is among the top states in the nation in percentage… Read more
Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by five
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, March 27, an additional five COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 736.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.
On Feb. 7, the Maine CDC removed a death from Lincoln County’s total decreasing the amount of countywide deaths from two to one. On Feb. 25, Lincoln County’s death toll rose, once again, from one to… Read more
March 27 update: Midcoast adds 10 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 27, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 795 cases, 212 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of three new cases since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has recorded 689 cases, 217… Read more
MaineHealth COVID vaccination clinic relocating to Rockland
ROCKLAND — MaineHealth’s COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Rockport is moving to a new location. The clinic, currently run at the Samoset Resort, in Rockport, will relocate to 409 Old County Road in Rockland and hold its first vaccination clinic there on March 31. Clinics will continue to run at the Samoset until then.
“We are so grateful to the Samoset Resort donating space for our Rockport clinic,” said Mark Fourre, MD, president of Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General… Read more
Face masks, personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are tax deductible
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service issued Announcement 2021-7 clarifying that the purchase of personal protective equipment, such as masks, hand… Read more
COVID-19 Patient Bill of Rights becomes law in Maine
AUGUSTA – A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash and House Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford to establish a COVID-19 Patient Bill of Rights became law without the governor’s signature Wednesday, and takes effect immediately.
LD 1, “An Act to Establish the COVID-19 Patient Bill of Rights… Read more
Maine receiving increase of 10,000 more COVID-19 vaccine doses next week
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is preparing to place an order for first doses of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and single doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccine, for 45,200 people, to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Operation Warp Speed.
This is an increase of 10,010 doses, not counting doses controlled by the federal government sent directly to… Read more
March 26 update: Midcoast adds 17 new COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 26, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine.
Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.
Knox County, since March 2020, has recorded 792 cases, 212 recoveries, 30 hospitalizations and five deaths. This data includes an increase of 10 new cases and one new hospitalization since yesterday’s update.
Waldo County, since March 2020, has… Read more
Emergency broadband benefit program available to eligible families in April
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The FCC recently adopted a Report and Order that established the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, a $3.2 billion federal initiative to help lower the cost of high-speed internet for eligible households during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.
Benefits of the program include:
• Up to $50/month discount for broadband services;
• Up to $75/month discount for broadband services for households on Tribal lands;
• A one-time discount of up to $… Read more
Maine DHHS urges Mainers to take advantage of new health care savings, extra sign up time
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging Mainers to take advantage of a recent announcement by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that the special enrollment period for HealthCare.gov plans will be extended until August 15.
The Biden Administration previously announced people without access to affordable coverage could sign up for coverage between February 15 and May 15 in response to the loss of jobs and health insurance due to… Read more
COVID-19 Information
ZIP code COVID-19 case data: Knox, Waldo counties (and some of Lincoln County)
Find a COVID-19 vaccination site
Benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine
How to prevent COVID-19 from spreading
What if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
U.S. CDC expands list of possible COVID-19 symptoms
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
New Easy Errands Delivery aims to serve Midcoast safely
Corie’s Rides helps community with personal taxi service
Maine Kebab opens in Rockland with forward-thinking takeout model
South Thomaston woman opens shop to help fellow crafters hard hit by pandemic
Maine Cater serves as a lifeline to local restaurants and servers
‘Wine Fairies of Maine’ are anonymous altruists who help any family in need
Establishing a sense of normalcy during a pandemic with Thomaston’s Pixie Planner
How to create a home office to boost well-being and productivity
Belfast Reentry Center sews more than 3,500 masks for Waldo County communities, schools
Volunteers, including in Swanville and Nobleboro, have shined during pandemic
How COVID-19 is impacting voter registration efforts ahead of November elections
Waldoboro Miller School teacher fundraising to redesign instructional model amid COVID-19
Belfast Free Library begins collaboration to document life during COVID-19 pandemic
COVID-19 Rental Relief Program open to most Mainers
‘Year 2020 is crazy enough’ so Camden will pack a time capsule for future reflections
Pop-up drive ins and outdoor movies are the latest rage this summer
Camden pursues designating pop-up vendor space at Tannery Park, solicits merchant interest
Four businesses changing up the way they operate in the COVID-19 era
Rockland to consider more Downtown side-street closures
New delivery service ‘Belfast Delivers’ brings food, products to Waldo County
‘Won’t You Be My Neighbor’ initiative in Camden brings cheer to congregate settings
Creativity at forefront of Thomaston’s Fourth of July celebration plans
Surprise drive-by 70th birthday celebration a milestone event for Camden man, despite pandemic
Waldoboro native discusses how she has trained many on the frontlines of COVID-19 testing
Camden Hills Class of 2020 gets a star
Rockland entrepreneur selected as part of QVC small business spotlight program
Buying locally raised meat becomes favored choice during pandemic
Waldo County Bounty campaign launches to improve food security, support farmers and gardeners
Waldo County’s Unity College turns to virtual tours during pandemic
Locals, long-time Maine visitors come together to support Midcoast’s small businesses
Help lift spirits at Belfast’s Tall Pines Commons and hang a bird feeder outside the windows
Knox County Food Council creates comprehensive schedule of all area food pantry, assistance centers
Midcoast paramedics, EMTs brainstorm, sew their own PPE, using shower curtains and socks
Camden Rotary mobilizes to address pandemic, support graduating seniors
Belfast Mayor, City Council approve and launch ‘Belfast Keep the Faith Fund’
Rockport dermatologist continues patient care with telemedicine
What are Maine families without internet connection supposed to do for the rest of the school year?
Rockland restaurateur enters third week of providing free meals
Doulas adjust to new way of helping expectant parents during COVID-19 days
Local first responders stand in recognition for healthcare workers on the frontline
Lyman-Morse lends a hand to local healthcare workers by building intubation aerosol boxes
Ways to make a child’s birthday happier during these challenging times
Physical Education teachers adjust to remote instruction during COVID-19
Educate Maine launches book challenge to provide books to students amid pandemic
Pen Bay Garden of Gratitude recognizes healthcare workers on the front lines
Camden inns pull together, bake goods for medical staff at Pen Bay Medical Center
Mt. Battie Star to shine this spring, lifting Midcoast spirits during a pandemic
Rockland’s Cedar Street named Wednesday as ‘Sunshine Mailman’ day
Churches shift to virtual worship amid pandemic
Mental healthcare professionals turn to virtual sessions during pandemic
Indie bookshops find workarounds to get books into hands of socially isolated customers
Penobscot Bay lobstermen survive by taking product directly to the people
Call to action: Maine appeals to retired, semi-retired EMTs, nurses, doctors to register and help
Rep. Zeigler establishes senior check-in program amid pandemic
Searsport’s KINDNESS program provides meals during times of need
Chef offering virtual cooking sessions to help Midcoast figure out what to cook
Rep. Doudera organizes check-in network for seniors during COVID-19 pandemic
Rockland woman turns to baking after being temporarily laid off amid COVID-19
Midcoast turns to virtual fitness sessions with familiar teachers
Acts of generosity: Danica Candles gives away ‘decompression candles’
Coping with sheltering at home: Red Cross advice, tips
Midcoast therapists discuss best ways to cope during COVID-19
Waldoboro Miller School teachers introduce familiarity through virtual reading sessions
Four Corner Variety owners providing free lunches to youth, elderly during pandemic
Kindness and generosity come in a surprise phone call to one stressed Camden restaurateur
UMaine Extension creates 4-H online resources for learning at home
New online Maine farm products, pick-up directory available
A new Facebook group directly connects Maine fishermen to local buyers
Maine students may be at home, but they still get breakfast and lunch — and it’s delivered
Game Loft launches ‘Reach Out to ME: I’ll be there’ postcard initiative
Five Towns area teens join task force, provide free childcare
Suddenly home schooling? Here are resources to help
One Waldoboro farmer seeks urgent solutions to current economy