AUGUSTA – Today, Speaker Ryan Fecteau D-Biddeford announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19, following a PCR test. Speaker Fecteau is now isolating, resting and working remotely.
Speaker Fecteau released the following statement regarding his positive test results:
“Today, I learned I have tested positive for COVID-19. That makes me one of 630 Mainers who are learning this news today. Since I received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine earlier this year, my case is considered a breakthrough infection, which have been reported in Maine and nationwide due to the highly contagious Delta variant. Fortunately, my symptoms are minimal. I am grateful to be vaccinated and, as a result, not experiencing the worst that COVID has to offer.
“While breakthrough COVID-19 infections are less prevalent, we know that they are possible, which is why booster shots are being recommended and authorized for many Mainers. Vaccinations have proved effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalization. My heart goes out to the 198 Mainers in the hospital with COVID-19 today, as well as the dedicated health care workers caring for them.
“Over the coming days, I will be isolating and monitoring my health. I will continue to work from home and rest up. I absolutely don’t plan to return to the State House until my isolation period has ended and I am fully recovered.
“My office is following Legislative Council policies and close contacts are being notified to avoid further spreading of the virus. As always, we are working to protect the health and safety of others and taking this virus very seriously. I encourage Mainers who are eligible for a booster or their first vaccination to protect themselves, their families and their loved ones by finding where they can get a free shot close to home.”
The COVID-19 vaccine is available at no charge throughout the state. For information on getting a COVID-19 vaccine, visit Maine.gov/covid19/vaccines or call the Community Vaccination Line at 1-888-445-4111.
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