The Lee County Health Department announced nine new confirmed COVID-19 cases today, by far its new cases in a single day. To date, the county has 30 confirmed cases.
As has been customary, no information about the people infected will be shared by county health officials.
According to a press release from the county, the health department is actively monitoring 23 cases. Seven individuals have resumed normal activities, and there have been no reported deaths in Lee County.
While the number might be alarming to some, health officials say it’s not wholly unexpected as North Carolina enters what its being considered “the peak” of the outbreak.
“Based on NCDHHS data, we expect the increase in the number of cases across the state to peak later next week,” Lee County Health Department Director Heath Cain said. “We should assume our numbers will continue to rise. We are hopeful that after next week the rate of new cases identified will begin to fall as we realize the benefit of ‘flattening the curve,’ but this virus will be around for quite some time. It is important to realize that we have a ‘new normal’ and even after we reach the peak of the outbreak, we must continue to follow the recommendations of NCDHHS and the CDC to prevent the virus from resurging.”
The county is urging residents to assume the virus can be contracted anywhere and continue practicing stay-at-home and social distancing measures. The county states: “If you must leave your home for essential activities and supplies, please follow the recommendations of the CDC and wear a face mask, wash your hands frequently, and practice social distancing by staying at least six feet or more away from other people.”
Those who do not have a primary care physician and are experiencing symptoms, you may call the Lee County Health Department at (919) 718-4640 for more information and assistance.