Health Officials Share COVID-19 Holiday Precautions

At a press conference today, Governor Roy Cooper and Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen expressed their concern over COVID-19 indicators across North Carolina.

On Thursday, for the third time in a week, more than 2,800 new COVID-19 cases were reported. And the last month has seen the longest sustained number of high daily counts since the pandemic began.

As the weather turns colder, and people begin gathering indoors, those numbers could trend even higher, and Dr. Cohen shared some guidance for the holidays.

"Do not attend or host a gathering if you feel sick or have been diagnosed or exposed to COVID-19," said Cohen. "Smaller is better, and outdoors is better than indoors. If you have tables, have each group of people who live together at their own table and then keep tables at least six feet apart from one another."

Cohen advised cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, wearing masks at all times other than while eating or drinking, and she recommended COVID screening tests prior to travel or attending gatherings this winter. A complete list of holiday guidance measures will be shared by the Department of Health and Human Services early next week.

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.