LifeFlight and the COVID-19 Outbreak
Release Date: 3/18/2020 12:00:00 AM
As the far-reaching coronavirus outbreak continues to dominate the news, we recognize the growing concern among our communities and wanted to take a few minutes to share what LifeFlight is doing in response. Although there remains a high level of uncertainty, it is clear that the national mobilization needed to keep people as safe as possible is at a level we haven’t encountered since the second world war.
We have made the difficult decision to restrict access to our bases of operations to staff and crew only and will postpone all public tours and visits until the current crisis subsides. We are also putting all external training programs on hold for the time being. We will monitor the situation closely as it continues to unfold and plan to update the public every two weeks.
READ MORE COVID-19 UPDATES FROM LIFEFLIGHT
Here at LifeFlight, we are taking care of Maine by supporting our EMS and hospital partners across the state who need to transport critical patients to a higher level of care. We’re also working closely with colleagues across the country and the world to ensure we are following the latest science-based guidance on how to transfer patients with COVID-19.
In addition, we are supporting the larger healthcare community’s efforts to keep people from contracting the virus and to limit its spread. We encourage everyone to focus on the most current science and guidance to keep themselves and their families safe. Use social distancing at all times. Wash your hands, don’t touch your face, disinfect high-traffic areas frequently, stay home if you have symptoms per recommendations from the CDC.
Here are some of the science links we are regularly following:
- Our World in Data
- Johns Hopkins University
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
In this time of uncertainty and concern, community is more important than ever. The good news is that people in Maine are known for their community-mindedness and willingness to lend a hand. We’re lucky in our line of work to see first-hand just how often Mainers are ready to jump in and help. Dealing with COVID-19 and its societal effects is going to require teamwork. We’ll need to rely on each other and all of our communities will be important partners as we address the needs of the larger community.
Thank you to our partners, friends and communities all across Maine. Stay safe.
