As you may have heard, Maine had its first confirmed case of coronavirus yesterday. The case involved a woman in her 50s who lives in Androscoggin County. Governor Mills has taken certain steps in response, including recommending that non-essential large, indoor gatherings of 250 attendees be postponed. This promotes ‘social distancing,’ which is a key strategy to delay a potential coronavirus outbreak and substantially reduce its spread. For more information, please go here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/press-release.shtml?id=2220078 We are well prepared for this here at YCCAC. We have developed a Preparedness and Response Plan which we have been implementing for several weeks now, including those steps recommended by the Maine CDC such as promoting good hygiene and inventorying and obtaining needed supplies. Now with the first confirmed case, we will take additional steps under our Plan. These include conducting client education about COVID-19; serving people by phone where possible; where phone service is not possible, conduct pre-visit phone screening; and including COVID-19 information and self-screening information in client mailings. These steps are designed to meet our two primary goals: meeting our clients’ and patients’ needs while reducing the risk staff or clients will become infected with the virus. A summary of our Plan has been posted on the coronavirus tab on the BB. This is a time of uncertainty for many people. I have often said this, but I truly believe YCCAC staff are the best and most caring staff in the country. Let’s make sure we support each other during this difficult time. We will post additional information in the coming days. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor, Department Director or Barb or me if you have any questions. Please also check the FAQs under the coronavirus tab on the BB. Carter