N.C. reports record 7,540 new COVID-19 cases; Modified Stay at Home Order Goes Into Effect Today

On Friday, December 11, another record high was reached in the state of North Carolina with a total of 7,540 new cases reported in one day.

“Having more than 7,500 cases is staggering and alarming. We are now seeing the impact of Thanksgiving gatherings,” said North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Secretary Dr. Mandy K. Cohen in a recent statement. “Do not wait until it is you or your loved one sick or alone in the hospital, or you are facing the loss of a loved one, to wear a mask, wait 6 feet apart, and wash your hands often.”

“Act now. Please ask yourself what you can do to help slow the spread of this virus and save lives.”

Because of these record-setting COVID-19 metrics, North Carolina will begin a Modified Stay at Home Order today which requires people to stay at home between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

The Order also requires restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, personal care businesses and more to close at 10 p.m. Travel to and from work; to obtain food, medical care, fuel or social services; or to take care of a family member is exempted. Read more in the Frequently Asked Questions document.

The order takes effect on Friday, Dec. 11, and will remain through at least Jan. 8, 2021.

In this week’s update to the County Alert Map, 48 of North Carolina’s counties are experiencing a critical (red) level of viral spread, and 34 are experiencing a substantial (orange) level of viral spread.

That means that more than 80% of counties in North Carolina are red and orange, (the highest two levels), with the remaining 18 in yellow, but still experiencing significant viral spread.

Dare and Hyde counties are currently both designated as yellow, per the most recent December 8 update.

For more information on the County Alert System and recent statewide statistics, visit the NCDHHS website at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard/county-alert-system.