Update on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and updated information will be provided as it becomes available.
The information on this page was last updated on 3/21/2020.
There are 77 positive COVID-19 cases in Mecklenburg County.
Mecklenburg County Public Health (MCPH) considers novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to be a very serious public health threat and has declared a State of Emergency. The declaration allows the County access to state and federal funds to offset the costs of fighting the pandemic.
To help reduce the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and to protect the community, the County has approved an Order Prohibiting Mass Gatherings (effective March 16, 2020) and developed teleworking plans (effective March 18, 2020) to empower employees to continue to perform essential functions and business operations while ensuring the health and safety of employees. That means some facilities and services will be operating on reduced schedules. Our Public Health response to the COVID-19 will continue at full capacity.
Follow the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) for statewide information and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for national and international information.
If you wish to volunteer with support efforts, call 704-432-4187.
Important Information:
- State Department Issues a Level 4 Travel Advisory warning all Americans to avoid all international travel
- Mecklenburg County Prohibits Gatherings of 50 People or More, until April 12
- Mecklenburg County Closes Gyms, Health Clubs
- North Carolina Closes Restaurants and Bars for Dine-in Service
- North Carolina Closes Public Schools K-12, beginning March 16 for at least two weeks
What You Need To Know
An outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel, or new coronavirus (2019 Novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19) has been identified. The illness was first detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China but has since spread to other countries. Adults 65 and older and people with severe medical conditions including heart, lung, or kidney disease are most susceptible to the virus and should avoid crowds and stay home as much as possible.
The most up to date guidance and information is available on the CDC website.
If you believe you've come into contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) here is how you can determine your risk of contracting the virus.
Are you at an Increased risk of infection?
The CDC has identified specific criteria to identify individuals who are at increased risk of infection. Please call your healthcare provider or the public health department at 980-314-9400:
- If you are at increased risk due to travel or potential exposure and you are experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
- If you feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing and you have had close contact with someone who is suspected to have Novel Coronavirus within 14 days of when your symptoms started.
Your healthcare professional will work with your local and state’s public health department to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
Prevention
MCPH recommends the public take the following steps to prevent the spread of ALL respiratory illnesses:
- Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Get a flu shot, it’s not too late. During this time of year, respiratory illnesses in North Carolina are often caused by infection with influenza or viruses that cause the common cold.
Still have questions? View Frequently Asked Questions
or call the Mecklenburg County Public Health Hotline at 980-314-9400.
Hotline is available Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday, 10am-2pm.
