COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in North Carolina on Oct. 13
Click here for updates for Oct. 14.
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in North Carolina. Check back for updates.
More than 2,200 hospitalized
At least 1,439,938 people in North Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus, and at least 17,330 have died since March 2020, according to state health officials.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services on Wednesday reported 3,239 new COVID-19 cases, up from 2,148 on Tuesday.
Ninety-seven additional coronavirus-related deaths were reported Wednesday. Health officials don’t specify the dates on which data newly reported deaths occurred.
At least 2,277 people were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Wednesday, including 617 adult patients who are being treated in intensive care units, health officials said.
On Monday, the latest date with available information, 7% of coronavirus tests were reported positive. Health officials say 5% or lower is the target rate to slow the spread of the virus.
Roughly 70% of adults in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and about 65% have been fully vaccinated. State officials round vaccination numbers to the nearest whole number.
State fair attendees urged to take precautions
The North Carolina State Fair kicks off Thursday with new rules due to COVID-19.
Last week, state officials announced that it’s encouraging attendees to come vaccinated and wear face masks, though those aren’t requirements to enter. People should stay home if they feel sick, and it’s recommended that people who aren’t vaccinated get a COVID-19 test within three to five days after going to a large event, The News & Observer reported.
While case metrics have improved in recent weeks, health experts urge people to be cautious.
“This combination of high rate and low vaccination in a crowded setting makes me nervous,” said Lavanya Vasudevan, professor of community health at Duke University School of Medicine. “If I was advising the State Fair, I would recommend mandatory masks and vaccination, not one or the other.”
COVID clusters linked to 19 Triangle schools
Clusters of coronavirus cases have been tied to 19 schools in the Triangle, data show.
That’s a drop from last week, when clusters were reported at 28 schools in the region, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
The counts are down after the state saw a surge in cases from the delta variant. Still, some families are concerned because only children ages 12 and older are currently eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
The schools most recently linked to groups of COVID-19 cases were in Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Harnett, Orange and Wake counties. Click here for a list of affected campuses.
Pastor giving $100 to people who get vaccinated
A pastor has a $100 incentive for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in North Carolina.
The Rev. Phil Brickle of Lost Sheep Ministries is offering the money on prepaid Visa and MasterCards to those who receive vaccine doses during a fall festival on Saturday. Though he hopes to help those with less money, anyone can take him up on the offer from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Southeast Raleigh Table on New Bern Avenue in Raleigh, The News & Observer reported.
“I’m just incredibly concerned and truly would love to see as many people come out,” Brickle said. “I know people could use the money.”
He’s also planning to give out a $25 bonus to people who give rides and an extra $10 to people who get tested for COVID-19, the N&O reported.
NC parents struggle to get diapers during COVID
North Carolina diaper banks have seen a rise in demand as the coronavirus spreads.
But as families seek the products for their children, the Diaper Bank of North Carolina is getting fewer donations.
Experts said the prices of diapers have gone up just as families are struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic. At the same time, there’s a shortage on diapers across the nation.
“With the growth that we’ve seen over the last couple of months, but also with the diaper shortage, we’re going to have to make some really hard decisions on how we can provide the most support for those that need it the most,” said Chance Van Noppen, executive director of the Saint Saviour’s Center diaper bank.
This story was originally published October 13, 2021 at 7:09 AM.
