With coronavirus cases still spiking across North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper is offering some advice for celebrating over the forthcoming holidays.  During a media briefing Tuesday, Cooper reminded the safest option is to connect virtually or over-the-phone.  If you are gathering in-person, the governor suggests:

• Keep gatherings small and outdoors
• Get a COVID-19 test beforehand
• Spread out the tables and chairs
• Follow the modified stay-at-home order and be home by 10 PM
• Wear a mask when gathering with those you do not live with
• Utilize remote options for attending worship services

As of Tuesday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported a total of 488,902 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state.  6,291 of those cases have resulted in death.  5,255 new cases were reported in Tuesday’s update.

With nearly two-thirds of North Carolina counties experiencing “critical community spread,” 65 counties are listed in “Red” on the state’s latest County Alert Map.  Wayne County remains “Orange,” meaning it is experiencing “substantial community spread.”