Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in North Carolina on Dec. 27
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in North Carolina. Check back for updates.
Cases surpass 516,000
At least 516,828 people in North Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus and 6,549 have died, according to state health officials.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services on Sunday reported 2,898 new COVID-19 cases. On Saturday, the department reported 19,419 new COVID-19 cases over a three-day period. The department did not provide coronavirus data Thursday or Friday because of the Christmas holiday.
On Sunday, the state reported 23 deaths.
About 11.9% of tests were reported positive as of Friday, the latest day for which data are available. Health officials have said that number should be 5% or lower to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Hospitalizations hit record
On Sunday, 3,123 patients were hospitalized with COVID-19 in North Carolina.
That’s 25 patients higher than the previous hospitalizations record of 3,098, which was reported three days earlier.
Hospitalizations have soared in December, doubling since mid November, as colder weather has driven more people indoors and as more people were exposed to the virus while traveling for Thanksgiving.
Duke women’s basketball calls off season
Duke University is ending its women’s basketball season after four games.
The Blue Devils players made the decision to end the season, saying it was not worth the risk, The News & Observer reported Saturday. The program had been paused since Dec. 16.
The decision does not affect the Duke men’s basketball program.
This story was originally published December 27, 2020 at 9:23 AM.
