Researchers Lower Projected NC COVID-19 Death Toll, Say Social Distancing Is Working

Researchers have lowered a projected COVID-19 death toll for North Carolina, and say this could be an indication that the state's social distancing guidelines may be working.

Researchers at the University of Washington say the coronavirus outbreak in North Carolina will likely peak next week with far fewer deaths than originally projected.

The study group now predicts that about 500 people in the state will die from COVID-19. That figure was closer to 2,400 just a week and a half ago.

The researchers say they now have more accurate information on how social distancing has impacted death rates in Italy and Spain, which has allowed them to refine their projections for North Carolina.

According to the News & Observer, the study also suggests North Carolina has a sufficient number of hospital beds to handle a surge in coronavirus patients.

Dr. Mandy Cohen is the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

She warns that there are still a lot of unknowns when it comes to how the coronavirus pandemic will play out. DHHS models show the need for hospital beds will peak in mid-to-late May, a full month after the University of Washington projections.

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.