On Thursday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported 2,532 new coronavirus cases, the highest single-day increase since the start of the pandemic. Additionally, the positivity rate, the number of positive results in comparison to the number of tests, has also slightly increased from September's average of 5%.
"We don't want to go backwards. No one wants to go backwards. So, let's do the hard work of doing the 3 Ws," Health Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen said Tuesday. "I know if can be inconvenient, but we can make sure our trends are headed in the right direction."
The three Ws are: Wear a face masks as much as possible in public, Wait and social distance from others, and Wash your hands frequently.
In a press conference on Thursday, Gov. Roy Cooper addressed the state's response to the growing numbers.
"Recently, like much of the country and other parts of the world, we've seen higher numbers," said Gov. Cooper. "It will be important to continue watching these numbers over a 14-day period. But one thing is clear — we must be even more vigilant in our effort to precent the spread of this virus."
According to WCNC, 239,939 people have tested positive in the state. While at least 206,471 have recovered, nearly 4,000 North Carolinians have died. Over 1,000 people are currently being treated for COVID-19 in hospitals across the state.
Cooper also announced the $117 million NC HOPE program to help residents having a hard time paying rent and utilities.
"The NC Office of Recovery and Resiliency stoop up this program while continuing their diligent work on hurricane recovery," he said. "I'm grateful for their hard work and for the efforts of the United Way of North Carolina in making sure this program can support North Carolinians in need."
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