The Lee County Health Department on Monday reported 62 new COVID-19 cases since May 3, as well as the county’s 78th death caused by the virus.

“We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the individual who passed away and ask you to keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” said Lee County Health Director Heath Cain. “The public is reminded that even as we ease restrictions related to COVID-19, the virus remains a threat to public health and safety. Please continue following the guidance of the CDC to help slow and prevent the spread of COVID-19 and if you have not already been vaccinated, please get vaccinated.”

The number of new cases is similar to the previous week, when 65 cases were reported. The new infections bring the number of county residents who have tested positive to 6,028.

Information about individual cases is not released in accordance with federal health privacy laws.

The public is strongly encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the virus. Individuals age 16 and older are eligible to receive the vaccine.  To register for the COVID-19 vaccine, individuals may call (919) 842-5744 or to register in Spanish, (919) 718-4640 option 8. Calls will be accepted Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is also an online pre-registration form available at leecountync.gov/covid19. Once a form is submitted, staff will be in contact to complete the registration process.

The department will hold a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Tuesday for scheduled participants only at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center in Sanford. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. As a reminder, individuals receiving their second dose of vaccine should bring their vaccination record card.

Testing locations can by found at covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing/find-my-testing-place.