Video still from Gov. Coopers Sept. 1 press conference.
Sept. 1. NC Gov. Roy Cooper says Safer at Home Phase 2.5 commences this Friday at 5 pm.
After five-plus months, businesses like gyms, bowling alleys, museums and aquariums can open. Some of the components of Phase 2.5 include:
—Mass gathering limits will increase to 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors from the current limit of 10 indoors and 25 outdoors.
—Playgrounds may open.
—Museums and aquariums may open at 50% capacity.
—Gyms and indoor exercise facilities, such as yoga studios, martial arts, and rock climbing, as well as skating rinks, bowling alleys, indoor basketball, volleyball etc., may open at 30% capacity.
—Bars, nightclubs, movie theaters, indoor entertainment facilities, amusement parks, dance halls will remain closed.
—Large venues remain subject to the mass gathering limits.
Mask requirement remain in place
Mask mandates and other prevention methods remain in effect. Athletic guidelines remain the same.
On Tuesday, Sept. 1, the NCDHHS reported 2,111 cases of COVID-19, as well as 39 new deaths statewide. Some 946 individuals are currently hospitalized, a dramatic improvement from July data.
Half of all adults in North Carolina have at least one contributing factor to serious illness from COVID-19, according to the NCDHHS.
“We’ve seen key indicators remain stable and even decrease,” Gov. Cooper said. The decision was based on:
—Trajectory in COVID-Like Illness (CLI) Surveillance Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s syndromic surveillance trend for COVID-like illness continues to decline.
—Trajectory of Lab-Confirmed Cases Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory of lab-confirmed cases is stable.
—Trajectory in Percent of Tests Returning Positive Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory in percent of tests returning positive is stable.
—Trajectory in Hospitalizations Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory of hospitalizations is declining.
—Laboratory Testing
The state continues to have testing capacity and lab turnaround times are averaging two days. However, fewer people are getting tested. Anyone who has symptoms or has been exposed should get tested. There are supports available to help people who may face challenges in being able to miss work or safely stay home.
—Tracing Capability
The state continues hiring contact tracers to bolster the efforts of local health departments.
Personal Protective Equipment
North Carolina’s personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies are stable.
Dr. Mandy Cohen
“As we take steps forward, it doesn’t mean letting up. The actions oaf all of us have gotten us to this point,” Cooper said.
Dr. Mandy Cohen, Secretary of the NCDHHS, said flu shots, are “more important than ever” as we face both the COVID-19 pandemic and the flu season.
Outdoor visitation at nursing homes
Rules around visitation at nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities have been relaxed. To participate, nursing homes must meet several requirements, including:
—Not having a current outbreak
—Having a testing plan and updated written Infection Control or Preparedness plan for COVID-19
—Having adequate personal protective equipment.
“Lets keep doing what we know works,” Cooper said.
