Katahdin region Covid-19 cases on the rise
By Robbie McKay Lincoln News • April 30, 2020
MILLINOCKET – With the release of the most current data available on Covid-19 numbers, Millinocket Regional Hospital is continuing to provide the community with information to help deal with the virus.
As of Tuesday, April 28, the Katahdin region has done 81 tests with 14 confirmed cases of which nine are active. Five people have recovered. MRH Chief Executive Officer Bob Peterson is once again stressing the seriousness of the situation.
“These numbers should be a wake-up call to the community. Covid-19 is here and this is not the time to relax the pandemic guidelines,” said Peterson. “We must be very adamant about social distancing, mask use, hand washing, etc.”
Penobscot County has had 57 total cases reported, with 16 active cases currently, of which over half are in the Katahdin region. Statewide, 33 people are currently hospitalized with 7 of those on ventilators.
Peterson said that while statewide the cases remain stable and the data in encouraging, the Katahdin region is experiencing a rise in cases.
“Thankfully, our overall numbers are relatively low but are continuing to rise almost daily,” he said. “This is not cause for panic, but it is worthy of some caution and concern.”
The United States CDC has added six new symptoms of Covid-19 to be aware of: chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell.
MRH continues to provide the region with information on dealing with the virus on its website www.mrhme.org. Featured are detailed instructions for those who are recovering at home, and steps to take to keep other family members and pets protected. People who have questions are urged to call 447-4190 for answers and further instructions.
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About Millinocket Regional Hospital
Millinocket Regional Hospital (MRH) is a 25 bed Critical Access Hospital nestled at the base of Baxter State Park that provides vital healthcare services to those who live, work and play in the Katahdin Region. Beyond the friendly staff and award-winning patient care, MRH provides an impressive range of specialty and general services; with a recent expansion resulting in the addition of eight new specialties and a Walk-In Care facility. In 2018, MRH was awarded the Press Ganey ‘Guardian of Excellence Award’ for exceptional patient experience; a nationally-recognized symbol of achievement for hospitals who consistently perform within the top 5%. Providing jobs to approximately 250 people, MRH is the largest employer in the Katahdin Region and a crucial economic driver within its community. For more information, please visit www.mrhme.org or www.facebook.com/MillinocketRegionalHospital