Forsyth County's rate of positive COVID-19 tests is increasing, according to data presented by the county's public health director.
Of all of the county residents who have been tested so far, about 12 percent were positive for the virus. That's higher than the current state average of 8 percent and more than double the World Health Organization's recommended target of 5 percent or less.
Public health experts say a high positivity rate could indicate only the sickest are being tested, meaning the county isn't getting a full picture of how much the virus is spreading in the community.
At a briefing Thursday, Health Director Joshua Swift said because the county is missing some data from CVS testing facilities, its rate may be slightly inflated — it's probably closer to 11 percent. But he said the rate has clearly been increasing since May.
“I think some of that is because we had more testing," said Swift. "But also we're trying to do more outreach and more events in areas where individuals are at higher risk of COVID-19.”
Swift said the department has recently been conducting more free testing events. The next one is scheduled for Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Waughtown Baptist Church.
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.
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