COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in North Carolina on Nov. 12
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in North Carolina. Check back for updates.
Case count tops 1.5 million
At least 1,501,801 people in North Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus, and at least 18,411 have died since March 2020, according to state health officials.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services on Friday reported 1,926 new COVID-19 cases, down from 2,198 the day before. The state health department said it didn’t publish case counts on Thursday due to the Veterans Day holiday.
There were 40 additional coronavirus-related deaths reported on Friday. Health officials don’t specify the dates on which newly reported deaths occurred.
At least 1,082 people were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Friday, including 308 adults being treated in intensive care units, health officials said.
On Wednesday, the most recent date with available information, 4.4% of coronavirus tests were reported positive. Health officials say 5% or lower is the target rate to slow the spread of the virus.
Roughly 72% of adults in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and about 68% have been fully vaccinated. State officials round vaccination numbers to the nearest whole number.
5 Charlotte-area schools begin offering COVID vaccines
Five Charlotte-area schools launched COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Thursday.
StarMed is offering the shots at Charlotte-Mecklenburg School locations — including three in Charlotte, one in Huntersville and one in Mint Hill. The sites are allowing walk-ins and allow people to make appointments.
The clinics will have Pfizer vaccines for children ages 5 and older. COVID-19 testing and Moderna and Johnson & Johnson shots will also be available, The Charlotte Observer reported.
Patrick Smith, assistant superintendent of communications, said the school district will urge families to vaccinate their kids “to protect not only their health but also to protect in-person learning in schools.”
Charlotte Marathon to return in-person after virtual year
The Charlotte Marathon will be held both in-person and online this weekend after the coronavirus pandemic forced it to be fully virtual last year.
Runners are expected to hit the streets for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, scheduled to begin in uptown early Saturday.
This year, participants aren’t required to show proof that they have been vaccinated against COVID-19. But those who haven’t gotten their shots are urged to “wear a mask at all times unless you’re between the start and finish line,” according to race director Tim Rhodes.
Masks must be worn at the health and wellness expo in NoDa Brewing and while on the race shuttle. After participants run, volunteers with masks and gloves will hand out food and medals, The Charlotte Observer reported.
Wake could use COVID relief money for additional teacher bonuses
The Wake County school board is expected to consider additional $3,750 bonuses for workers, officials said.
District leaders on Nov. 16 are expected to propose approval to use federal COVID-19 relief funds to give employees the extra money, The News & Observer reported.
Some have complained that a recently approved $1,250 bonus wasn’t enough. Similar to other school districts, Wake has faced staffing shortages that are leaving other employees with more work.
