US: Officials in Maine extend current COVID-19 restrictions through at least Jan. 3. /update 13

Event

Officials in Maine have extended current statewide restrictions through at least Jan. 3, due to high levels of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity. Under the current orders, all indoor and outdoor amusement venues, movie theaters, performing art venues, casinos, restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments, must cease operations daily by 2100.

Indoor gatherings of more than 50 people are banned, regardless of the venue's capacity, including for events such as weddings, as well as businesses such as restaurants and fitness centers; outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people are banned. Retail establishments must limit the number of people within their facilities to a maximum of five per 92.3 square meters (1,000 square feet). Indoor services at bars and tasting rooms must remain closed until further notice. The protective face covering mandate remains in place statewide; face coverings must be worn in all indoor public spaces in all public settings, regardless of how far apart people are from each other.

Any traveler entering Maine from another US state, except Vermont and New Hampshire, or from an international destination, must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. To avoid the self-quarantine mandate, travelers may produce proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival in Maine. The requirements also apply to all Maine residents returning from other states. Although they are exempt from these requirements, travelers from Vermont and New Hampshire are also encouraged to take a COVID-19 test. Those arriving from abroad must also self-quarantine for 14 days or produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken within 72 hours prior to entering Maine.

All businesses must enhance sanitation procedures, ensure compliance with social-distancing guidelines, and provide the necessary protective equipment for employees.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Heed the directives of the authorities. Reconfirm all health-related travel requirements before travel. Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.