North Carolina has recorded more than 51,000 cases and 1,200 COVID-19 related deaths
North Carolina has officially surpassed 50,000 positive coronavirus cases, four months after recording its first case, according data released by the state’s department of health and human services.
North Carolina is the 13th state to reach that grim milestone, according to a NY Times map of coronavirus cases across the country.
The state reported 1,549 new positive cases Saturday, bringing its official total to 51,389 cases. North Carolina recorded its first coronavirus case on March 3.
There have been 1,212 total COVID-19-related deaths, 15 more than what was reported Friday, and 883 people hospitalized. The 883 people hospitalized is also another one-day high.
State health officials and Gov. Cooper continue to monitor hospitalizations along with other factors like testing, contact tracing and the number of coronavirus cases as they evaluate North Carolina’s next steps.
Cooper has said he will make an announcement next week about the next phase in easing restrictions.
Raleigh now requires its residents to wear a face covering when out in public. Durham has the same requirement, and so does Orange County. Raleigh’s policy went into effect on Friday.
Cooper has said he is considering a state-wide movement to make face coverings mandatory in public places.
The data also shows that more than 19,000 people were tested.
This story was originally published June 20, 2020 at 1:37 PM.
