Scientists racing to decode omicron variant as defenses buy time

Labs in Europe, the U.S. and Africa are preparing for tests to see how the new variant is likely to behave in people who’ve been vaccinated or previously infected.

Maine hospitals work to expand capacity in light of COVID-19 surge

Record hospitalizations are straining resources and hospital staffs.

Merck COVID pill effective, but experts will review safety, FDA says

Government scientists said their review identified several potential risks, including possible toxicity to developing fetuses.

What to know about the omicron variant of the coronavirus

New Hampshire, Vermont asked to test deer for COVID-19

Maine is monitoring the tests from other states, but is not actively testing deer for COVID-19.

Portland Stage cancels its run of ‘A Christmas Carol’ because of COVID-19 cases

The theater company will record one performance of its big moneymaker for people to watch at home but is shutting down the live production after several people involved in the show tested positive.

U.S. restricts travel from southern Africa as world races to contain new ‘omicron’ COVID variant

Omicron's actual risks are not understood, but early evidence suggests it carries an increased risk of reinfection compared with other highly transmissible variants.

What is this new COVID variant in South Africa?

South African scientists have identified a new version of the coronavirus this week that they say is behind a recent spike in COVID-19 infections.

Dixfield school district virus numbers drop significantly

Regional School Unit 56 superintendent says pool testing for COVID-19 catching cases sooner.

COVID-19 sweeps through SAD 17