Source: Johns Hopkins University data

April 6. By Dave Yochum. North Carolina ranks 28th on a list of “least restrictive” states in terms of COVID-19 rules and regulations, meaning we’re more restrictive than 22 states.

According to the new WalletHub study, South Carolina is the seventh-least restrictive state, COVID-wise, while New Jersey ranks 41st. To read WalletHub’s study, click here.

The Top Five most restrictive are Vermont, District of Columbia, Delaware, Virginia and, tied for No. 5 most restrictive, Washington and New York.

Deaths per 10,000

In terms of deaths per 10,000 due to COVID-19, North Carolina is faring better than South Carolina—18 deaths per 10,000—and New Jersey—28 deaths per 10,000. Data from Johns Hopkins University as of Sunday puts North Carolina at 12 deaths per 10,000. (See chart.)

Today’s new deaths

The NC Dept. of Health & Human Services today reported 16 new deaths yesterday related to COVID-19 statewide, for a total of 12,189 since the outbreak began. In Mecklenburg County, the NCDHHS is reporting a total of 915 coronavirus deaths.

New cases

The NCDHHS is reporting 870 new COVID-19 cases, for a total of 923,430 statewide since the outbreak began last year.

Hospitalizations

Statewide, COVID-related hospitalizations rose to 982, up from 907 in yesterday’s NCDHHS report and 924 hospitalized on week ago.

Testing

The statewide positive test rate was at 7 percent in today’s report; in Mecklenburg, 6.2 percent.

North Mecklenburg

Cornelius: 4 new cases, 2,728 cumulative; 24 deaths total.

Davidson: 1 new case, 1,583 cumulative; 15 deaths total.

Huntersville: 8 new cases, 5,550 cumulative; 48 deaths total.