Wake County reports seven new coronavirus cases, total is now 32
Seven more Wake County residents have tested positive for coronavirus on Friday, bringing the county’s reported cases to 32.
County health officials released information stating it has 267 residents under active monitoring. Of those, 55 are awaiting test results while 38 others are awaiting testing.
“We’ve been expecting a steady uptick in positive cases since our first case on March 3, so this is no surprise,” Wake County Medical Director Dr. Kim McDonald said in a statement released by the county. “Because of that, we’ve planned for managing the situation. As case numbers grow, so does the potential burden on our healthcare system. I strongly encourage everyone to practice social distancing to slow the virus’ spread, and to stay home if you are sick.”
On Friday, a resident of Woodland Terrace assisted living community tested positive for the coronavirus, Matt Towler, executive director of the facility confirmed in an email statement sent to The News & Observer.
Other residents are quarantining in their apartments and staff members who were exposed are quarantining at home, according to the statement.
“We are working with local and state health authorities, as well as following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),” the statement read.
Neighboring Durham County reported four more of its residents tested positive on Friday, increasing its number of reported cases to 39. Mecklenburg County, which includes the city of Charlotte, has reported 43.
The statewide total of reported cases is now 179.
To slow the spread of illness, Gov. Roy Cooper has banned mass gatherings of 100 people or more, closed K-12 public schools and ordered bars and restaurants to close except for takeout and delivery.
This story was originally published March 20, 2020 at 6:47 PM.