North Carolina Coronavirus: 1,943 Cases, 21 Deaths Friday
NORTH CAROLINA — The number of people who have tested positive for the new Coronavirus in North Carolina grew by 1,943, according to data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. An additional 21 deaths were also reported on Friday.
Statewide, data shows that 1,943 people have died from the virus so far, and a total of 122,148 people have tested positive for the virus since the pandemic began.
The state reports hospitalizations fell statewide to 1,229, down 10 from Thursday. In the last 24 hours, however, 429 more people were admitted to hospitals across the state on suspicion of having COVID-19. Only 91 percent of the state's hospitals reported data to the Department of Health and Human Services on Friday.
Data shows one additional person was placed on a ventilator Friday, bringing the state's total ventilator usage to 910. Another 2,422 ventilators remain unused as of publication.
Free testing will be provided in Mecklenburg County over the weekend for people who meet certain criteria. To be tested, attendees must bring a photo ID, insurance information if applicable and a cloth face covering.
Take a look at the state's current coronavirus dataset here.
In a news conference Friday, Gov. Roy Cooper and other state officials explained the pandemic has added additional difficulties to hurricane prep as category one Hurricane Isaias approaches North Carolina.
Officials asked that, should evacuation orders be issued, residents try to stay with friends and family members or in hotels rather than going to shelters.
If needed, places of shelter will be available to evacuating residents. Evacuees could also be assigned rooms in dormitories, hotels or motels, The News & Observer reported.
According to the report, state officials will announce shelters' locations if needed.
“A hurricane during a pandemic is double trouble, but the state has been carefully preparing for this scenario so we can do our best to keep people safe from the weather, as well as the virus,” Cooper said.
This article originally appeared on the Charlotte Patch
