Coronavirus updates for March 16: Here’s what to know in North Carolina this week
We’re tracking information about the coronavirus and vaccines in North Carolina. Check back every Thursday for updates.
Over 4,000 COVID cases added
At least 4,104 new coronavirus cases were reported in North Carolina last week, down from 5,549 the week before, according to preliminary data from state health officials.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services also reported 516 new weekly COVID-19 hospital patient admissions, a drop from 615 the previous week, according to figures through March 11, the most recent metrics available. The daily average of adult coronavirus patients in intensive care was 82, compared with 88 the week before.
The figures — released Wednesday, March 15 — show roughly 78% of adults in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and about 74% have finished an initial round of vaccine doses. Of the state’s total population, about 63% finished their initial round and about 68% have received at least one dose. State officials round vaccination metrics to the nearest whole number.
“Out of all people who have finished their initial vaccines in North Carolina, 59% have been vaccinated with at least one booster, and 22% with an updated omicron booster,” the health department wrote on its website, adding that it experienced a problem with posting the latest data.
“Due to a technical issue, COVID-19 vaccinations data was partially refreshed on the dashboard published on March 15, 2023,” state officials wrote. “Data will be fully updated on the next dashboard published on March 22, 2023.”
Health officials have urged those who are eligible to get boosted, as data shows it offers increased protection against the omicron coronavirus variant. Across the state, virtually all new COVID-19 cases were attributed to omicron strains in the two weeks leading up to March 4, the latest time period for which data is available.
WakeMed hospitals easing face mask rules
WakeMed, a health care system with a presence in the Triangle, is easing some face mask requirements at its clinics and hospitals.
The updated rules were to go into effect March 16 “after thoughtful consideration,” according to the medical provider. There could be a universal mask requirement again if coronavirus trends change.
“Patients, staff and visitors will no longer be required to mask up in certain parts of WakeMed hospitals, including public hallways, break rooms, conference rooms, elevators, cafeterias, gift shops and outpatient pharmacies,” The News & Observer reported.
The change also impacts most affiliated physician and rehabilitation centers. But people will be asked to wear masks if they’re experiencing respiratory symptoms or in places where it could be a challenge to practice social distancing.
Also, WakeMed is increasing its visitor limit. Children are now allowed, and up to two people can visit patients, the N&O reported.
Elsewhere in the region, Duke Health and UNC Health continued to require face coverings as of March 12.
Is it COVID or allergies?
As plants release pollen and COVID-19 continues to spread, it may be difficult to tell what’s causing your symptoms.
But there are some signs that could help distinguish between seasonal allergies and COVID-19, according to a list from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For example, sneezing and itchy or watery eyes could be signs of seasonal allergies. On the other hand, fever is one symptom that’s more closely tied to COVID-19, McClatchy News reported March 10.
Still, some symptoms overlap, and health officials recommend taking a test if you think you have COVID-19.
As spring nears, read more about common symptoms here.
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