As COVID Cases Rise, Cohen 'Most Worried' She's Been During Pandemic

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen issued a grim update on the upward trend in COVID cases, as well as the vaccination rollout on Friday. 

Cohen made her remarks after two days of new COVID-19 cases numbering over 10,000.

“In the 10 months that we've been fighting this pandemic, this is the most worried that I've been for our state," she says. "We continue to set new records.”

Cohen said the percent positive remains in the double digits and there are record high numbers of hospitalizations and people needing intensive care.

Currently, the state is vaccinating health care workers, long-term care staff and residents, and those over 75. Next, will be frontline essential workers such as police, firefighters, and child care workers.

The first National Guard teams supporting vaccination efforts will begin working this week in areas including Forsyth County.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.