Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah says he’s frustrated that the Trump administration has put out information suggesting the state has more testing capacity than it actually does.
Eric Russell
Staff Writer
Eric Russell has been a general assignment reporter at the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram since 2012 and has been a journalist in Maine since 2004. Because he doesn’t have a specific geographic or topical area to cover, Eric often is free to roam the state in pursuit of the most interesting stories, whether it’s tackling the big topic of the day or chasing ideas that fall just outside the boundaries of everyday news. His favorite assignments are ones where he can leave the office and meet with people in their homes or their workplaces to talk about their struggles and challenges – and sometimes their triumphs. Or to try and answer complicated questions. Eric grew up in Southern Maine, went to college at the University of Maine and worked in Bangor for eight years before joining the Press Herald. He lives in Brunswick with his wife, a school teacher, and two daughters.
Overdose risk during pandemic is tragic reality for some families
Experts have warned that prolonged isolation and uncertainty is a bad combination for drug users and people in recovery, but it’s too early to tell if overdose deaths have increased.
Child protection workers caring for their own kids can’t get paid leave
Although an emergency federal law expanded the Family Medical Leave Act, DHHS caseworkers and others in Maine are not eligible, so they must choose between protecting vulnerable children and keeping their own safe.
Maine reports 3 more virus deaths as Gov. Mills announces protections against evictions
The governor also announced the creation of a $5 million fund through MaineHousing to assist tenants who cannot pay their rent.
Sens. Collins, King join presidential task force to reopen economy
Maine’s U.S. senators are part of a large bipartisan group that includes two-thirds of the Senate and more than 30 House members.
Maine licensing boards caution doctors against prescribing unproven COVID-19 drugs
Two boards say that it would be ‘unprofessional conduct’ for doctors to prescribe chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine or azithromycin to themselves or family members, and that the drugs should not be prescribed for preventive purposes.
Maine doctors prescribing drugs unproven against COVID-19
The state regulatory board for pharmacies issues guidelines for prescribing chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, drugs promoted by President Trump despite a lack of proof that they work.
Maine colleges and universities receive $41 million in federal coronavirus aid
Half the money distributed under the federal relief package must go directly to students.
Isolation, disruption of routine hard on children and adolescents
Mental health experts are worried about the effects of long-term isolation on young people.
New charges filed against Lyman assault suspect
Maine State Police say he continued to make phone calls from jail to a woman he is accused of choking.