Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency for North Carolina amid coronavirus concerns Tuesday.
On Monday, five new cases of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 were identified in Wake County and all were linked to a Boston conference. During a live press conference on Tuesday, Governor Cooper confirmed North Carolina’s current known total is seven presumptive positive cases. But he said it’s likely more are soon to be reported, goal is to limit the number of people who become seriously ill.
“The main purpose of declaring a state of emergency,” said Cooper, “is increased flexibility to respond and prevent, as well as to allocate funds where needed. The state of emergency can help speed supplies and gives health and emergency managers more budget flexibility. It protects consumers from price gauging. It encourages insurers to make testing available for little or no cost. And it expands the ability to use more health professionals who are working to respond to this virus.”
Cooper said while many of the cases stem from one incident and are older adults, he reminded residents of the coronavirus’ ability to spread via respiratory droplets and of its longer incubation period.
“Anyone can carry the virus to loved ones or friends who can become ill,” he said. “Protecting public health means being cautious and being prepared. Today we are both.”
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Twitter account was also provided updates during the briefing.
State Health Director @betseytilson – As of 11:45 a.m., 44 in NC tested for #COVID19 by state lab, 7 presumptive positive. Can test another 300.
— NCDHHS (@ncdhhs) March 10, 2020
The department also gave statewide recommendations targeted towards at-risk patients in wake of more identified cases and the subsequent state of emergency.
NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen said organizers of mass gathering events in the Triangle that primarily draw high-risk persons, including those that attract older adults, should consider cancelling or postponing their events. Adults of 65 years-old and those with underlying health conditions like lung disease, diabetes, weakened immune systems and others are strongly encouraged to avoid large crowds of people and to monitor any symptoms. Cohen said this includes avoiding gatherings such as concert venues, conventions, church services, sporting events, and crowded social events.
Cooper acknowledged the state’s recommendations could lead to inconvenience, disappointment and even financial loss to some residents. But he said they are based on the best medical advice and will ultimately save lives.
“We do want people to take this seriously, but we also want them to go on living their lives, ” the governor said, “particularly those who are not in the higher-risk group. We just need them to do it wisely.”
At this time, the NCDHHS does not list children in the high-risk persons category. Cohen said since they appear to be at a lower risk of serious infection from the coronavirus, the state is not currently recommending the preemptive closure of schools.
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