COVID-19 UPDATES AND GUIDANCE

The end of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Declaration on May 11 will transition COVID-19 response into a routine part of public health and healthcare activities.

Reporting

The end of the emergency declaration will impact the way that COVID-19 data is reported to public health agencies, as laboratories will no longer be required to report COVID-19 test results. Transylvania Public Health will no longer be publishing regular reports of COVID-19 data and trends. However, public health agencies will continue to monitor certain COVID-29 metrics along with other communicable diseases of concern.

At the national level, the CDC will report the percentage of COVID-19 associated deaths and percentage of emergency department visits for patients with COVID-19 each week, as modeled after flu surveillance. The CDC will also report COVID-19 hospital admissions weekly through April 2024. Wastewater surveillance will continue, along with genomic testing to track transmission of variants. Vaccination data will be updated monthly, for jurisdictions that continue to submit data. (See https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/.)

In North Carolina, NCDHHS has already incorporated COVID-19 data into its dashboard with other respiratory illness data. It will continue to include data on visits to emergency departments, new hospital admissions, and wastewater surveillance. (See https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.) State-level vaccination data updates will retire on May 31, but will be available from the CDC. COVID-19 vaccination records are transitioning to the routine immunization reporting system. After June 1, individuals who need copies of their COVID-19 vaccination records will need to get them from their healthcare provider, local health department, or pharmacy in the same way that they request other vaccination records.

Vaccines

Access to vaccines will be mostly unaffected for now. The federal government is currently distributing free COVID-19 vaccines for all adults and children. Vaccines are generally available at pharmacies and from healthcare providers. Transylvania Public Health will continue to offer COVID-19 vaccines along with other routine vaccines for adults and children. Call 828-884-3135 to schedule an appointment. For help finding a vaccine provider, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/vaccines.

Updated COVID-19 vaccines that better protect against the latest Omicron variants are available for everyone ages 6 months and older. Everyone who received their last COVID-19 vaccine before September 2022 is due for an updated dose, as well as Individuals ages 65 and older who received their last dose at least 4 months ago and people with compromised immune systems who received their last dose at least 2 months ago.

Tests

Insurance providers will no longer be required to waive costs or provide free COVID-19 tests, although some providers will cover the cost of COVID-19 tests like they do for other medical tests. Locations of free COVID-19 testing sites are available at: https://testinglocator.cdc.gov/.

Home test kits continue to be widely available for now, including free test kids from Project ACT (https://www.accesscovidtests.org/) and those distributed through the U.S. Postal Service (https://special.usps.com/testkits)

Treatments

Medication to prevent severe COVID-19 illness, including Paxlovid, will remain available for free while supplies last. After that, the price will be determined by the medication manufacturer and health insurance coverage. For help finding treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/FindTreatment.

Transylvania County data update

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 53 additional cases of COVID-19, 5 additional hospitalizations for COVID-19, and 2 additional deaths from COVID-19 in the past month. Currently, 6 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). New cases decreased 28% in the past 30 days compared to 30-60 days ago. Since March 2020, a total of 8,599 cases and 89 deaths have been reported among county residents. The updated graphic is attached with additional information. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

 Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of May 3, based on 46.53 new cases per 100,000 population, 1.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 1.5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Based on data from May 3, community transmission remains moderate in Transylvania County. Transmission numbers continue to decline, with only 8 counties in NC and 17% of counties nationwide currently showing high levels. (This metric continues to be used by healthcare providers to determine appropriate precautions in their facilities.)

 North Carolina data update

As of May 3, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 7.6 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased slightly to 1.5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 37% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 23% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending April 29 were Omicron XBB.1.5 (78%), XBB.1.9.1 (7%), and XBB.1.16 (6%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of May 3, all counties in North Carolina are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 72 additional cases of COVID-19 and 5 additional hospitalizations for COVID-19 in the past 30 days. Currently, 6 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). New cases decreased 1% in the past 30 days compared to 30-60 days ago. Since March 2020, a total of 8,546 cases and 83 deaths have been reported among county residents. The updated graphic is attached with additional information. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of April 6, based on 49.44 new cases per 100,000 population, 1 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 1.8% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

For areas in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone:

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including bivalent boosters for everyone ages 6 months and older. COVID-19 vaccines are available in Transylvania County from Transylvania Public Health, Blue Ridge Health-Brevard, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.
• Get tested if you have symptoms. Free at-home test kits are still available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. At-home test kits available for purchase are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans; check with your insurance provider for details. In-person testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. Find testing locations at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.
• Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library.

Based on data from April 3, community transmission remains moderate in Transylvania County. Transmission numbers continue to decline, with only 13 counties in NC and 28% of counties nationwide currently showing high levels. (This metric continues to be used by healthcare providers to determine appropriate precautions in their facilities.)

 North Carolina data update

As of April 12, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard also shows mixed indicators of virus activity, but lower levels of COVID-19 overall. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 17.3 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased slightly to 2% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 were level. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 22% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending April 1 were Omicron XBB.1.5 (86%), XBB (10%), BQ.1.1 (3%), and CH.1.1 (1%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of April 6, all counties in North Carolina are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 73 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional hospitalizations for COVID-19 in the past 30 days. Currently, 4 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). New cases decreased 50% in the past 30 days compared to 30-60 days ago. Since March 2020, a total of 8,474 cases and 83 deaths have been reported among county residents. The updated graphic is attached with additional information. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

 Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of March 9, based on 29.08 new cases per 100,000 population, 1.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 2.5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

For areas in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

Based on data from March 8, community transmission is now moderate in Transylvania County. Transmission numbers are declining, with only 28 counties in NC and 41% of counties nationwide currently showing high levels. (This metric continues to be used by healthcare providers to determine appropriate precautions in their facilities.)

North Carolina data update

As of March 8, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 9.7 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 2.9% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 22% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending February 25 were Omicron XBB.1.5 (80%), BQ.1.1 (9%), and CH.1.1 (3%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of March 9, all counties in North Carolina are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms, before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19. Symptoms include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. 

Free at-home test kits are available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

Early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19. Recent data shows that the bivalent booster works to prevent severe illness and reduces the likelihood of getting COVID-19 symptoms.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Starting today, Transylvania Public Health will begin reporting COVID-19 data on a monthly basis. Our next update will be released on March 15. This transition is related to decreasing numbers of new cases and changes in data collection and reporting as agencies begin to prepare for the end of the public health emergency in May. Weekly data updates will continue to be available from NCDHHS at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard and from the CDC at https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,413 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 15 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). In the past 30 days, a total of 150 new cases have been reported among county residents. New cases decreased 33% in the past 30 days compared to the previous 30 days. The updated graphic is attached with additional information. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of February 9, based on 113.42 new cases per 100,000 population, 2.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 2.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

Based on data from February 8, community transmission remains high in Transylvania County, along with 88 counties in North Carolina and 57% of counties nationwide. (This metric continues to be used by healthcare providers to determine appropriate precautions in their facilities.)

North Carolina data update

As of February 15, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slowing indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 17.9 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at 4.1% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 21% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending February 4 were Omicron XBB.1.5 (52%) and BQ.1.1 (30%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of February 1, 3 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 25 counties are medium (yellow) and 72 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Starting February 15, Transylvania Public Health will be transitioning to a monthly COVID-19 Update, published on the second Wednesday of each month. Additional COVID-19 data will continue to be available from NCDHHS at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard and the CDC at https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 35 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,387 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). The outbreak at The Oaks will be closed, as no new cases have been reported in the past 14 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 17% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of February 2, based on 58.16 new cases per 100,000 population, 4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 3.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from February 1, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with 95 counties in North Carolina and 61% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of February 8, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows mixed indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 28.6 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at 4.2% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 21% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending January 28 were Omicron XBB.1.5 (38%), BQ.1.1 (34%), and BQ.1 (10%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of February 1, 4 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 39 counties are medium (yellow) and 57 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 30 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,352 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 18 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). No additional cases have been reported at The Oaks this week, but the outbreak will remain open until 14 days have passed with no new cases. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 17% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Transylvania is in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of January 19, based on 116.33 new cases per 100,000 population, 3.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 4.6% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from January 23, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with 98 counties in North Carolina and 62% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of February 1, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard show slowing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 19.3 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at 4.3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 21% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending January 21 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (43%), XBB.1.5 (24%), BQ.1 (12%), and BA.5 (7%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of January 26, 5 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 45 counties are medium (yellow) and 50 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 36 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,322 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 28 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). The outbreak of COVID-19 at The Oaks is still ongoing, but the outbreak at Tore’s Home #7 will be closed as 14 days have passed with no new cases. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 33% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Transylvania is in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of January 19, based on 159.95 new cases per 100,000 population, 7.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 6.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from January 18, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with 95 counties in North Carolina and 61% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of January 25, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 16.1 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 4.6% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 21% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending January 14 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (47%), XBB.1.5 (15%), BQ.1 (13%), and BA.5 (10%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of January 19, 13 counties are high (orange), 48 counties are medium (yellow) and 39 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 54 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,286 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 28 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Outbreaks have been identified at The Oaks and Tore’s Home #7. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 5% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Transylvania is now in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of January 12, based on 159.95 new cases per 100,000 population, 8.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 6.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from January 9, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with all counties in North Carolina and 71% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is again in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of January 18, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 34.0 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 5.0% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 20% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending January 7 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (46%), BQ.1 (13%), BA.5 (12%), and XBB.1.5 (12%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of January 12, 52 counties are high (orange), 36 counties are medium (yellow) and 12 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines are readily available and bivalent boosters are important for reducing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.

Bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response. Children under age 5 should get the same vaccine brand for all recommended doses.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe to take at the same time as the annual flu shot or other vaccines. Parents should talk with a health care provider to make sure their child is up to date on all recommended vaccines, including COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 56 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 8,232 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 32 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Outbreaks have been identified at The Oaks and Tore’s Home #7. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 13% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Based on increases over the past few weeks, Transylvania is now in the moderate (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of January 5, based on 322.82 new cases per 100,000 population, 5.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 5.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from January 4, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with all counties in North Carolina and 75% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is now in the moderate category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that people at high risk of getting very sick should wear a high-quality mask or respirator (N-95) when indoors in public. People who have household or social contacts with someone at high risk of getting very sick should consider self-testing before contact and wearing a high-quality mask when indoors with the high-risk person. Everyone should: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others. 

North Carolina data update

As of January 11, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 82.4 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 6.6% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 20% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending December 31 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (43%), BA.5 (17%), and BQ.1 (16%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of January 5, 68 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 30 counties are medium (yellow) and 2 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. 

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

After a positive test, early treatment is key to avoiding severe illness and hospitalizations, and treatment may even reduce complications from post-COVID conditions, also called long COVID. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Free telemedicine appointments to screen for COVID-19 treatment eligibility are available through an NCDHHS partnership with StarMed Healthcare. To set up an appointment, visit https://starmed.care/nc or call 704-941-6000, seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with moderate (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Everyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an added layer of protection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where COVID-19 spreads most easily.  Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

COVID-19 vaccines are readily available and bivalent boosters are important for reducing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.

Bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response. Children under age 5 should get the same vaccine brand for all recommended doses.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe to take at the same time as the annual flu shot or other vaccines. Parents should talk with a health care provider to make sure their child is up to date on all recommended vaccines, including COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 64 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 8,176 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 38 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 52% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Although cases continue to increase, Transylvania remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of December 29, based on 5.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 3.4% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from December 28, community transmission is high in Transylvania County, along with 96 counties in North Carolina and 71% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of January 4, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 22.5 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms increased to 7.2% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both continue to increase. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 20% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending December 24 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (49%), BA.5 (17%), and BQ.1 (14%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels as of December 29, 10 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 52 counties are medium (yellow) and 38 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up. Boosters can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response. Children under age 5 should get the same vaccine brand for all recommended doses.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe to take at the same time as the annual flu shot or other vaccines. Parents should talk with a health care provider to make sure their child is up to date on all recommended vaccines, including COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

COVID-19 testing

Testing for COVID-19 is recommended for anyone with symptoms including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Testing is also recommended before and after travel, and 5 days after exposure to someone with COVID-19.

In-person COVID-19 testing is available in Transylvania County at CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, Walgreens, and private healthcare providers. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home test kits are currently available by mail from www.covidtests.gov and www.accesscovidtests.org/. Free tests can also be picked up at local organizations: visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests for locations. At-home test kits are also covered by most private health insurance plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans. Tests covered by providers will either be free at the time of purchase or reimbursed later by submitting a claim with a receipt. Check with your insurance provider for more details.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask at all times and should avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart. They should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, they should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at Transylvania County Library and other community locations; call 884-3135 for details.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 42 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 8,006 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 33 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 56% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Although cases and hospitalizations are increasing, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the COVID-19 Community Levels as of December 8, based on 87.25 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from December 7, community transmission remains moderate in Transylvania County; transmission is currently high in 74 counties in North Carolina and 72% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including the new bivalent boosters. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of December 14, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 15.2 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at around 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 18% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending December 3 were Omicron BQ.1.1 (30%), BA.5 (26%), and BQ.1 (16%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 1 county in North Carolina is high (orange), 8 counties are medium (yellow) and 91 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Bivalent booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are now recommended for ages 6 months and up. Last week, the FDA expanded its emergency use authorization to include bivalent boosters for the youngest children. These doses will be available from providers in North Carolina soon. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe to take at the same time as the annual flu shot. Children may be able to get this updated COVID-19 booster along with other routine vaccines at the same visit. Parents should talk with a health care provider to make sure their child is up to date on COVID-19 and other vaccines.

Bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines can be given at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine or 3 months after having COVID-19. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response. Children under age 5 should get the same vaccine brand for all recommended doses.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-3135 for details.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 27 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,964 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 35% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of December 1, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 40.72 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.1% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from November 30, community transmission was moderate in Transylvania County; transmission is currently high in 21 counties in North Carolina and over half of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of December 7, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 13.4 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were up to 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 17% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The most common COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending November 26 were Omicron BA.5 (33%), BQ.1.1 (29%), and BF.7 (10%). Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, no counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 3 counties are medium (yellow) and 97 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Since COVID-19 spread has increased during the last two winters, it’s important to take steps now to protect against serious infection, including staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-3135 for details.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 20 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,937 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 15 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 43% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of November 24, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 37.81 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.1% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from November 23, community transmission was moderate in Transylvania County; transmission is currently high in only 12 counties in North Carolina but about 45% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

People who have recently traveled or attended gatherings should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 and seek testing if they experience fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. Seek medical care for any symptoms that seem severe or concerning to you,

North Carolina data update

As of November 30, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slightly increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 11.0 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were up to 3.7% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 17% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending November 19 were 38% Omicron BA.5, 24% BQ.1.1, 9% BQ.1, 8% BF.7, 8% BA.4.6, 7% BA.2.75, 1% BA.5.2.6, 1% BA.2, and less than 1% BF.11, BA.4 and BA.2.12.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, no counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 7 counties are medium (yellow) and 93 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine but should wear a well-fitting high-quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Additional information for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-3135 for details.

Vaccines and boosters

A new CDC study released last week shows that the updated bivalent mRNA booster provides additional protection from symptomatic COVID-19. Since COVID-19 spread has increased during the last two winters, it’s important to take steps now to protect against serious infection, including staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-3135.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 14 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,917 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 14 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). The outbreak at The Oaks assisted living facility has been closed. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 56% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, but the total number of new cases reported to public health remains low. As of November 17, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 29.08 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from November 16, community transmission was moderate in Transylvania County; transmission is currently high in only 13 counties in the state and about 38% of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

Public health officials recommend taking additional precautions before and after gatherings and holiday travel, especially if gathering with people who at higher risk of severe illness. This includes being up to date on vaccination and boosters, testing before and after travel or gatherings, wearing a mask as recommended, and increasing ventilation when possible. Traveling by private vehicle can lower the chances of spreading COVID-19 to others. People who are sick or who have tested positive for COVID-19 should not travel or gather with others until they are no longer recommended to isolate. Those who have ended isolation but need to continue wearing a mask per CDC guidance should be sure to wear a high-quality mask when around others indoors for the entire duration of the trip or gathering; they should not travel or gather if they are unable to wear a mask properly as recommended. Those who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the past 10 days should be tested 5 full days after their last exposure and should wear a high-quality mask when around others indoors for the entire duration of the trip or gathering; they should not travel or gather if they are unable to wear a mask properly as recommended.

North Carolina data update

As of November 23, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 10.4 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were down to 3.3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 16% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending November 12 were 46% Omicron BA.5, 15% BQ.1.1, 12% BA.4.6, 9% BQ.1, 8% BF.7, 4% BA.2.75, 2% BA.5.2.6, 1% BA.2, 1% all others, and less than 1% BA.4 and BA.2.12.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, no counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 7 counties are medium (yellow) and 93 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

A new CDC study released this week shows that the updated bivalent mRNA booster provides additional protection from symptomatic COVID-19. Since COVID-19 spread has increased during the last two winters, it’s important to take steps now to protect against serious infection, including staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,903 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 8 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 50 cases and 1 death at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 76% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of November 10, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 119.24 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.1% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on data from November 9, community transmission was high in Transylvania County, along with nearly half of counties in the state and the nation.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of November 16, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 8.1 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were down to 3.9% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 15% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending November 5 were 52% Omicron BA.5, 15% BA.4.6, 10% BF.7, 9% BQ.1, 6% BQ.1.1, 4% BA.2.75, 3% BA.5.2.6, and less than 1% BA.4 and BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 2 counties in North Carolina are high (orange), 17 counties are medium (yellow) and 81 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses, but continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for ages 6 months and older. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 38 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 7,894 cases and 83 deaths among county residents. Currently, 15 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 48 cases and 1 death at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 31% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of November 3, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 72.71 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Community transmission has dropped to “substantial” levels in Transylvania County; it remains high in about one-third of counties in the state and about half of counties nationwide.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of November 9, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows mixed indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 11.2 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 4.3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 14% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending October 29 were 60% Omicron BA.5, 19% BA.4.6, 5% BF.7, 6% BQ.1.1, 4% BQ.1, 3% BA.2.75, 1% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.2 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 16 counties in North Carolina are medium (yellow) and 84 are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses, but continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for ages 6 months and older. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 29 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,856 cases and 81 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 48 cases at The Oaks. (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 47 cases at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 29% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of October 27, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 81.43 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Community transmission has dropped to “substantial” levels in Transylvania County and remains high in about one-quarter of counties in the state and the nation.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of November 2, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slightly increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose to 10.1 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 4.1% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 13% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending October 22 were 66% Omicron BA.5, 16% BA.4.6, 7% BF.7, 4% BQ.1, 4% BQ.1.1, 2% BA.4, 1% BA.2.75, and less than 1% BA.2 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, all 100 counties in North Carolina are low (green). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses, but continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for ages 6 months and older. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 41 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death, for a total of 7,827 cases and 81 deaths among county residents. Currently, 18 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 47 cases at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 37% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high in 2/3 of North Carolina counties and about 1/4 of counties nationwide. As of October 20, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 130.87 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of October 26, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 6.8 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 3.7% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 11% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending October 15 were 68% Omicron BA.5, 21% BA.4.6, 8% BF.7, 2% BA.4, 1% BA.2.75, and less than 1% BA.1.1 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 88 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 11 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 1 county is in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 years and older receive the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available for adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses, but continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for ages 12 and older. Booster doses for younger children will be available soon. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 31 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,786 cases and 80 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 42 cases at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 16% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high for about half of counties in the state and the nation, including Transylvania. As of October 13, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 113.42 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 4.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.3% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 86 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 12 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 2 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC now recommends the new bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines for everyone ages 5 years and older, at least 2 months after their last dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or 3 months after having COVID-19. The Pfizer booster is available adults and children ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster is available for adults and children ages 6 and older. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses, but continue to be recommended for primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series to increase immune response.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for ages 12 and older. Booster doses for younger children will be available soon. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 37 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,755 cases and 80 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 42 cases at The Oaks. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County increased 6% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high in most of North Carolina and in about half of the U.S. As of October 6, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 98.88 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.6% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of October 12, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric fell to 8.5 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 3.7% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, but only 7% of vaccinated people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending October 1 were 75% Omicron BA.5, 20% BA.4.6, 2% BA.4, 2% BF.7, 1% BA.2.75, and less than 1% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 68 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 23 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 9 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The FDA has expanded authorization of the new bivalent booster vaccines for use in younger age groups, with the Pfizer booster authorized for ages 5 and older and the Moderna booster authorized for ages 6 and older. Providers can begin offering the bivalent boosters to younger children after CDC recommendations are released, which is expected later this week, and their physician orders have been updated. The original vaccines can no longer be used as booster doses for these age groups, but continue to be recommended for primary series.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A bivalent booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 12 or older who received their initial series or their last booster dose at least 2 months ago, and for children ages 5-11 who received their initial series at least 5 months ago.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 35 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,718 cases and 80 deaths among county residents. Currently, 27 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 40 cases at The Oaks; other outbreaks have been closed as it has been 14 days since the last identified case. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 29% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and over half of the U.S. As of September 29, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 191.94 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 4.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of October 5, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slowing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric rose slightly to 12.1 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 349,694 people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending September 24 were 79% Omicron BA.5, 17% BA.4.6, 1% BA.4, 1% BA.7, 1% BA.2.75, and less than 1% BA.2 and BA.2.12.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 65 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 23 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 12 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

At-home test kits are available for purchase at local stores and for free by mail and for pick up at local organizations: for more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/home-covid-19-tests.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 49 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,683 cases and 80 deaths among county residents. Currently, 34 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 18 cases at Accordius Health, 36 cases at The Oaks, 30 cases at Cedar Mountain House, and 4 cases at Kingsbridge House. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 56% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of September 22, Transylvania County was in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 366.44 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 5.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that people who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of September 28, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slowing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 11.4 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 4.5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 275,982 people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending September 17 were 79% Omicron BA.5, 17% BA.4.6, 2% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.2.75, BF.7, and BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 43 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 36 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 21 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance; they are filling quickly at this time, but more appointments are added daily. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 111 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death, for a total of 7,634 cases and 80 deaths among county residents. However, 42 of these cases tested positive In July and August but were not reported by the provider to the health department until this week. Currently, 43 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 18 cases at Accordius Health, 30 cases at The Oaks, 30 cases at Cedar Mountain House, and 4 cases at Kingsbridge House. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County decreased 22% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of September 15, Transylvania County was in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 354.81 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.6% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that people who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of September 21, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows mixed indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 16.9 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 5.1% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased slightly. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 173,465 people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending September 10 were 78% Omicron BA.5, 15% BA.4.6, 5% BA.4, 1% BA.2.75, 1% BF.7, and less than 1% BA.2.12.1 and BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 36 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 38 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 26 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. All appointments are booked at this time, but more will open each week. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 142 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 7,523 cases and 79 deaths among county residents. Currently, 89 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 17 cases at Accordius Health, 23 cases at The Oaks, and 26 cases at Cedar Mountain House. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 109% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of September 8, Transylvania County was in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 186.13 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.1% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is currently in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines (including boosters). Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of September 14, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows mixed indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 12.5 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were 5.4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased, but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased. Statewide, 78% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 78,554 people have received a dose of the new bivalent booster. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending September 3 were 80% Omicron BA.5, 15% BA.4.6, 5% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.2.12.1 and BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 43 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 32 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 25 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is now offering the new bivalent booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. Other available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. All COVID-19 vaccines are available by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 12 or older who received their initial series or their last booster dose at least 2 months ago. Boosters are also recommended for children ages 5-11 who received their initial series at least 5 months ago.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 68 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,381 cases and 79 deaths among county residents. Currently, 41 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 17 cases at Accordius Health, 11 cases at The Oaks, and 3 cases at Cedar Mountain House. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 17% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of September 1, Transylvania County has moved back into the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 255.7 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 0 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 6.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is currently in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines (including boosters). Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of September 7, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slowing indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric detected 19.3 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 5.0% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both decreased. Statewide, 77% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 60% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending August 27 were 82% Omicron BA.5, 12% BA.4.6, 5% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.2.12.1 and BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 24 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 55 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 31 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Last week, the CDC recommended the use of updated COVID-19 boosters that combine the original vaccines with ones that target Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 to offer better protection against the most commonly circulating variants.  The bivalent COVID-19 vaccines can be given as a single booster dose at least 2 months after receiving a primary or booster COVID-19 vaccination. The Pfizer bivalent vaccine is available for people ages 12 and older, and the Moderna bivalent vaccine is available for people ages 18 or older.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Bivalent booster doses will be offered starting September 12. Other available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, and a second booster is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with low (green) community levels may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities. People who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider wearing a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public for additional protection. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 57 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 7,313 cases and 79 deaths among county residents. Currently, 41 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Current outbreaks in group living facilities include 15 cases at Accordius Health, 9 cases at The Oaks, and 3 cases at Cedar Mountain House. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 21% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of August 25, Transylvania County has moved back into the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 235.57 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 7.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends that people who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of August 31, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric was level at around 20.0 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 5.3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 rose slightly. Statewide, 77% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 60% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending August 20 were 81% Omicron BA.5, 11% BA.4.6, 6% BA.4, 1% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 22 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 35 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 43 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The FDA has issued emergency use authorization for the Moderna and Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for use as a single booster dose at least 2 months after receiving a primary or booster COVID-19 vaccination. These new boosters combine the original vaccines with ones that target Omicron BA.4 and BA.5. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet this week to determine its recommendations for the COVID-19 fall bivalent boosters, which must be followed by a recommendation from the CDC director and provider updates before vaccination with these doses can begin. Following this announcement, the older monovalent mRNA vaccines are no longer authorized as booster doses for people ages 12 years and older.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, and a second booster is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. Bivalent booster doses will be offered once they are available. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. People who have household or social contact with someone at higher risk for getting very sick should consider wearing a mask around them and self-testing before contact. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. Masks are recommended in indoor public transportation settings and may be required by local or state authorities.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community; call 884-4007 for details.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 74 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death in the past week, for a total of 7,256 cases and 79 deaths among county residents. Currently, 42 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). An outbreak of 14 cases has been identified at Accordius Health assisted living facility. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 4% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of August 18, Transylvania County has moved into the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 177.4 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the low category for COVID-19 Community Levels, the CDC recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of August 24, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows decreasing indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 20.4 million virus particles per person in the past week, from 28.2 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased to 5.8% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 decreased slightly. Statewide, 77% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 60% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending August 6 were 73% Omicron BA.5, 15% BA.4, 9% B.1.1.529, 2% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 7 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 31 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 62 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Both Pfizer and Moderna have applied for FDA emergency use authorization of updated boosters of their vaccines, formulated to better protect against the currently dominant strains of the virus in the U.S. These boosters combine the original vaccines with ones that target Omicron BA.4 and BA.5. The Moderna booster is a 50-microgram dose and would be available for ages 18 and older, while the Pfizer booster is a 30-microgram dose and would be available for people ages 12 and older. The new boosters could be offered in September, pending FDA authorization, CDC recommendation, and provider availability. However, the CDC recommends that people who are currently eligible for a booster dose should go ahead and get one rather than waiting on the new boosters.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, and a second booster is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 71 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 7,182 cases and 78 deaths among county residents. Currently, 54 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). An outbreak of 10 cases has been identified at Accordius Health assisted living facility. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 13% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, but community transmission remains high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of August 11, Transylvania County remains in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 250.11 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 9.3 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 5.5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, people at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of August 17, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows mixed indicators of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 28.2 million virus particles per person in the past week, from 26.1 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms decreased slightly to 6.3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 were level. Statewide, 77% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 60% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending August 6 were 73% Omicron BA.5, 17% BA.4, 6% B.1.1.529, 3% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 3 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 36 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 61 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Guidance update

Last week, the CDC issued revised guidelines for people with COVID-19 and those who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 do not need to quarantine, but should wear a well-fitting high quality mask for 10 full days and be tested for COVID-19 on day 5 even if they don’t develop symptoms. This is consistent with previous guidance for people who were up to date on COVID-19 vaccine, but now applies regardless of vaccination status. People who develop symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested for COVID-19.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in the home. This is when people are likely most infectious. If they must be around others at home or in public, they should wear a well-fitting high quality mask. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for oral COVID-19 medications that can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after they have ended isolation, those people should restart isolation at day 0 and talk to a healthcare provider.

After 5 days, people who have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medications and whose other symptoms are improving (or who never had symptoms) can end isolation but should continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get serious illness from COVID-19 until at least day 11. They should wear a well-fitting high quality mask through day 10, or until they have 2 negative antigen tests taken 48 hours apart.

People who had moderate illness (those who experienced shortness of breath or difficulty breathing) or severe illness (those who were hospitalized) due to COVID-19 as well as people who have a weakened immune system should continue to isolate through day 10. People with severe illness or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare provider before ending isolation.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public. This includes older adults, people with medical conditions or who are immunocompromised, and those who are pregnant or were recently pregnant. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Vaccines and boosters

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, and a second booster is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 82 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 7,111 cases and 78 deaths among county residents. Currently, 42 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 22% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days and community transmission is high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of August 4, Transylvania County remains in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 206.49 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 5.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, people at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of August 10, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows steady levels of virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 26.1 million virus particles per person in the past week, from 22.9 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain level at around 7% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased slightly but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 were level. Statewide, 77% of adults and 30% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 59% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending July 30 were 66% Omicron BA.5, 16% BA.4, 8% B.1.1.529, 7% BA.2.12.1, and 2% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 6 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 27 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 67 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose. A booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, and a second booster is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public. This includes older adults, people with medical conditions or who are immunocompromised, and those who are pregnant or were recently pregnant. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 67 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 7,029 cases and 78 deaths among county residents. Currently, 43 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 26% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, but community transmission is high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of July 28, Transylvania County remains in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 226.84 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 5.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, people at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of August 3, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 23.2 million virus particles per person in the past week, from 20.5 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms increased to around 7% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased slightly but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased. Statewide, 77% of adults and 29% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 59% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending July 23 were 58% Omicron BA.5, 16% BA.4, 13% BA.2.12.1, 8% BA.2, and 5% B.1.1.529. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 3 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 36 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 61 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

The Novavax COIVD-19 vaccine has been authorized by the FDA and recommended by the CDC as an additional option for adults ages 18 and older. Novavax is based on a protein-based vaccine technology that has been used for more than 30 years to prevent diseases such as shingles, hepatitis B, and influenza. It will be given as a 2-dose primary series with the second dose 3-8 weeks after the first. Novavax is not authorized as a third dose or a booster dose at this time. This additional option for COVID-19 vaccination gives people more flexibility to choose a vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. At this time, Transylvania Public Health will not be offering Novavax vaccines. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public. This includes older adults, people with medical conditions or who are immunocompromised, and those who are pregnant or were recently pregnant. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 90 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death in the past week, for a total of 6,962 cases and 78 deaths among county residents. Currently, 57 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 20% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Community transmission is high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of July 21, Transylvania County remains in the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 255.93 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 4.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 4.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, people at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of July 27, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 20.5 million virus particles per person in the past week, down from 25.8 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms increased to around 6.8% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased. Statewide, 77% of adults and 29% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 59% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending July 16 were 58% Omicron BA.5, 18% BA.4, 15% BA.2.12.1, 5% BA.2, and 4% B.1.1.529. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 5 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 45 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 50 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard. 

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with medium (yellow) community levels who are at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public. This includes older adults, people with medical conditions or who are immunocompromised, and those who are pregnant or were recently pregnant. Other people may choose to wear a mask at any time.

Some face coverings provide additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 75 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,872 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 41 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 19% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests has decreased significantly. Community transmission is high throughout North Carolina and most of the U.S. As of July 14, Transylvania County moved into the medium (yellow) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 249.45 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 8.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 5.8% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Since Transylvania County is now in the medium category for COVID-19 Community Levels, people at high risk for severe illness should consider wearing a mask indoors in public and taking additional precautions. The CDC also recommends the following actions for everyone: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. Anyone may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and others.

North Carolina data update

As of July 20, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows increasing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 25.7 million virus particles per person in the past week, up from 16.5 million particles in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were around 6% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased. Statewide, 77% of adults and 29% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 58% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending July 9 were 44% Omicron BA.5, 26% BA.2.12.1, 20% BA.4, 7% BA.2, and 4% B.1.1.529. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 19 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 40 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 41 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 93 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,797 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 59 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 45% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, and the percent of positive tests has also increased. Community transmission is currently high throughout North Carolina. However, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of July 7, based on 180.31 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 4.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.4% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of July 13, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows rising virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric increased to 16.5 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain around 5.5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased slightly, but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 have increased. Statewide, 77% of adults and 29% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 58% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending July 2 were 37% Omicron BA.5, 36% BA.2.12.1, 15% BA.4, 10% BA.2, and 2% B.1.1.529. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 29 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 53 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 18 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 64 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,704 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 33 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 16% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, but the percent of positive tests has increased. Community transmission levels are currently high throughout North Carolina. However, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of June 30, based on 145.41 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.1% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

As of July 6, the NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show slowing virus activity. The wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 15.8 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain around 5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 both increased slightly. Statewide, 77% of adults and 29% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 58% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. (Please note that the percent of vaccinated children and teens has decreased because it now includes ages 6 months to 17 years.) The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending June 25 were 49% Omicron BA.2.12.1, 29% BA.5, 11% BA.4, and 11% BA.2. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 70 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 26 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 4 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Vaccine doses for children are a smaller dose than the adult vaccine and may not be available at all locations. Children younger than 3 years of age cannot be vaccinated by a pharmacist and must receive their vaccines from a doctor’s office, health center, or local health department.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 76 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,640 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 38 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 27% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently in Transylvania County and for most of the state. However, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of June 23, based on 171.59 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show slowing virus activity. As of June 29, the wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 16.7 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain around 5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 were fairly level. Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 57% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending June 18 were 58% Omicron BA.2.12.1, 16% BA.2, 17% BA.5, 9% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.1 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 53 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 36 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 11 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC now recommends that all children ages 6 months and older should receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is available as 3 doses given 3-8 weeks apart for children ages 6 months to 4 years and 2 doses given 3-8 weeks apart for children ages 5 years or older. The Moderna vaccine is available as 2 doses given 4-8 weeks apart for children ages 6 months through 5 years; a third dose is available for children who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. A Moderna vaccine for ages 6-17 years has also been authorized, with 2 doses given 4-8 weeks apart.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Vaccines for young children ages 6 months to 5 years will be available at Transylvania Public Health starting July 6. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 3-8 weeks days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 4-8 weeks apart for ages 6 months and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 4 weeks after their last dose of the primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 60 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,56 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 38 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 9% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently high statewide. Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of June 16, with 122.15 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.6 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.6% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard shows slowing virus activity over the past 2 weeks. As of June 22, the wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 19.1 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms have been 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased 6% (to 21,803) and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 decreased 9% (to 839). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 57% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending June 11 were 54% Omicron BA.2.12.1, 31% BA.2, 11% BA.5, 4% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.1 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 35 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 42 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 24 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC now recommends that all children ages 6 months and older should receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is available as 3 doses given 3-8 weeks apart for children ages 6 months to 4 years and 2 doses given 3-8 weeks apart for children ages 5 years or older. The Moderna vaccine is available as 2 doses given 4-8 weeks apart for children ages 6 months through 5 years; a third dose is available for children who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Vaccines for young children ages 6 months to 5 years are not currently available at Transylvania Public Health but will be offered soon. Available COVID-19 vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (or 3 doses for ages 6 months to 4 years) or 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart for ages 6 months to 5 years and for ages 18 years and older. A single dose of J&J is also available for people ages 18 and older in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 55 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,504 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 32 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 8% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently high statewide. Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of June 9, with 159.95 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.8 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 3.5% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increased virus activity statewide. As of June 15, the wastewater monitoring metric decreased to 21.9 million virus particles per person in the past week, compared to 26.3 million in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms fell slightly to 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased 7% (from 25,839 to 23,211) but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 11% (from 836 to 925). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 56% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending June 4 were 56% Omicron BA.2.12.1, 35% BA.2, 7% BA.5, 2% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.1 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 34 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 42 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 24 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The FDA’s expert committee on vaccines voted to approve a Moderna vaccine for children ages 6-17 on Tuesday and met on Wednesday to consider Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for children as young as 6 months old. The CDC will meet later this week to make recommendations on these vaccines, which could be available as early as next week.

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including booster doses for children ages 5-11. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J for ages 18 and older, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (available to ages 5 and older), 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart (available to ages 18 and older), or a single dose of J&J (available to ages 18 and older). The mRNA vaccines are preferred for most people, but the J&J vaccine may be considered in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 51 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,449 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 16% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently high statewide. Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of June 2, but all metrics are increasing, with 159.95 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 3.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 2.9% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity statewide. As of June 8, the wastewater monitoring metric rose to 27.3 million virus particles per person in the past week, compared to 26.5 million in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at 5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 decreased slightly from 27,636 to 24,941 but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 735 to 833. Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 56% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the two weeks ending May 28 were 58% Omicron BA.2.12.1, 37% BA.2, 3% BA.5, 1% BA.4, and less than 1% BA.1.1 and all others. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 43 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 44 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 13 counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, now including booster doses for children ages 5-11. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J for ages 18 and older, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (available to ages 5 and older), 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart (available to ages 18 and older), or a single dose of J&J (available to ages 18 and older). The mRNA vaccines are preferred for most people, but the J&J vaccine may be considered in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 44 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,398 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 28 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 8% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. The percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently high for most of the state, including Transylvania County. The county remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of May 26, based on 75.61 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 2.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity statewide. As of June 1, the wastewater monitoring metric rose to 26.5 million virus particles per person in the past week, compared to 19.1 million in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms rose slightly to 5% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 declined 7% (from 28,369 to 26,446) while new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 14% (from 643 to 734). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 56% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the 2 weeks ending May 21 were 95% Omicron BA.2, 4% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.1.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 84 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 15 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and 1 county is in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, now including booster doses for children ages 5-11. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J for ages 18 and older, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (available to ages 5 and older), 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart (available to ages 18 and older), or a single dose of J&J (available to ages 18 and older). The mRNA vaccines are preferred for most people, but the J&J vaccine may be considered in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 5 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, community transmission in our area is high, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 48 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,354 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 35 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 14% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, and a few more hospitalizations been reported. Percent of positive tests remains high. Community transmission levels are currently high for most of the state, including Transylvania County. The county remains in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of May 19, but all metrics have increased over the past week with 75.61 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.4 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 2.3% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity statewide. As of May 25, the wastewater monitoring metric rose to 19.0 million virus particles per person in the past week, compared to 14.1 million in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were steady at 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 rose 20% (from 23,027 to 27,636), and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 22% (from 431 to 524). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 55% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the 2 weeks ending May 7 were 88% Omicron BA.2, 11% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.1.1 and other variants. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 90 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 10 counties are in the medium (yellow) level, and no counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The CDC now recommends that children ages 5 to 11 years who are not immunocompromised should receive a booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine 5 months after their initial vaccination series. (Children ages 5 to 11 years who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster 3 months after completing their most recent dose.) The CDC has also strengthened its recommendation for second boosters: all adults ages 50 and older, and people ages 12 and older who are immunocompromised should receive a second booster at least 4 months after their first booster.

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including booster doses for children ages 5-11 starting June 1. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J for ages 18 and older, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (available to ages 5 and older), 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart (available to ages 18 and older), or a single dose of J&J (available to ages 18 and older). The mRNA vaccines are preferred for most people, but the J&J vaccine may be considered in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 12 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

A second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12 years or older who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, cases in our area are increasing, so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 42 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,306 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 29 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 180% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Hospitalizations have increased slightly, and the percent of positive tests has doubled. While community transmission is currently high, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels as of May 12. This level is based on 31.99 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 2.2% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard continues to show increasing virus activity statewide. As of May 18, NCDHHS the wastewater monitoring metric was steady at 14.1 million virus particles per person in the past week, compared to 14.4 million in the previous week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms rose slightly from 3% to 4% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 rose 35% (from 17,094 to 23,027), and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 22% (from 431 to 524). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 55% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. The COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing for the 2 weeks ending May 7 were 83% Omicron BA.2, 17% BA.2.12.1, and less than 1% BA.1.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 98 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 2 county is in the medium (yellow) level, and no counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Vaccines and boosters

The FDA has amended the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to allow a single booster dose for children ages 5 to 11 years, to be given at least 5 months after completion of a primary series with the Pfizer vaccine. Before providers can begin offering a booster dose to children, the CDC must release new recommendations for this vaccine and then providers must have updated physician orders. The CDC’s advisory committee for immunization practices will be meeting on Thursday to determine its recommendations for a booster dose for children ages 5 to 11 years.

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, and booster doses extend that protection—especially against severe illness—for a longer period of time.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment, including second boosters for eligible individuals. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. Available vaccinations include a primary series of Pfizer or Moderna, single doses of J&J for ages 18 and older, additional doses for immunocompromised individuals, and first and second booster doses for eligible individuals. Booster doses for children ages 5-11 are not yet available. People who have received previous doses of any COVID-19 vaccines should bring their previous vaccination card(s) if available. 

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, with 2 doses of Pfizer given 21 days apart (available to ages 5 and older), 2 doses of Moderna given 28 days apart (available to ages 18 and older), or a single dose of J&J (available to ages 18 and older). The mRNA vaccines are preferred for most people, but the J&J vaccine may be considered in some situations. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should also receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine at least 28 days after their last dose as part of this primary series.

An initial booster dose is recommended for everyone ages 12 or older, at least 5 months after completing the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna doses or 2 months after receiving a single dose of J&J. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a booster dose at least 3 months after their last dose of Pfizer or Moderna or at least 2 months after their last dose of J&J vaccine. For initial booster doses, the mRNA vaccines are preferred, but the J&J vaccine may be considered.

Adults ages 50 or older and certain immunocompromised individuals who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago may now choose to receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. In addition, people who received a primary dose of the J&J vaccine and a booster dose of the J&J vaccine at least 4 months ago may now receive a second booster dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. However, cases in our area are increasing so some individuals may choose to take additional precautions.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive. 

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 15 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,264 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 17 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 29% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days and the percent of positive tests is slightly lower. As of April 21, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 20.36 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 1.7% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard is showing increased virus activity statewide. As of May 11, NCDHHS is reporting an increase in the wastewater monitoring metric from 12.2 million to 14.4 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms were level at around 3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 rose 32% (from 12,509 to 17,094), and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 15% (from 373 to 431). Statewide, 77% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 54% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. As of April 16, the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were 99% Omicron BA.2, less than 1% BA.1.1, and less than 1% BA.1.529. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 99 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 1 county is in the medium (yellow) level, and no counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 21 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,249 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 15 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 17% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days and the percent of positive tests is increasing. As of April 21, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels, based on 23.27 new cases in the past 7 days per 100,000 population, 1.2 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population, and 1.6% of staffed inpatient beds in the region in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data update

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard is showing early signs of increased virus activity statewide. As of May 4, NCDHHS is reporting an increase in the wastewater monitoring metric from 11.3 million to 12.2 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms rose slightly to around 3% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 rose 28% (from 9,431 to 12,509), and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased 46% (from 254 to 373). Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 53% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. As of April 16, the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were 81% Omicron BA.2, 9% BA.2.12.1, 8% BA.1.1, 2% BA.1.529, and less than 1% other variants. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 99 counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level, 1 county is in the medium (yellow) level, and no counties are in the high (orange) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

NCDHHS has identified an additional 1,146 deaths from COVID-19 that occurred between January 1 and March 31, 2022 and were not previously reported, through a linkage with North Carolina’s recently-implemented electronic death certificate system. COVID-19 deaths in North Carolina are determined by providers and local health departments based on criteria that include a positive molecular or antigen test for COVID-19 and having died without fully recovering from COVID-19 and having no alternative cause of death identified. The linkage to the electronic death certificate system will now include deaths based on a positive molecular or antigen test for COVID-19 and a death certificate indicating COVID-19 as one of the causes of death. A total of 24,577 North Carolina residents have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began.

Current mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 18 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,228 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 11 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Although the total number of new cases remains fairly low, new cases in Transylvania County have increased 260% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days and the percent of positive tests is also increasing. As of April 21, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels based on new cases and hospital impact.

The CDC recommends that people take the following actions in areas with low COVID-19 community levels: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Get tested if you have symptoms. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19. Wear a mask on public transportation. You may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect yourself and others.

North Carolina data

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard is showing early signs of increased virus activity statewide. As of April 27, NCDHHS is reporting an increase in the wastewater monitoring metric from 5.1 million to 11.3 million virus particles per person in the past week. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain steady at around 2% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 rose 24% (from 7,279 to 9,431), and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 decreased very slightly (from 278 to 254). Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 53% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. As of April 16, about 88% of the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were Omicron BA.2, 10% were BA.1, and nearly 2% were other variants. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, all counties in North Carolina are in the low (green) level. More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current mask recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

COVID-19 testing

Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Guidance for people with COVID-19

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider to see if they are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Oral antiviral medications can lower the risk of severe illness, but must be taken within 5 days of symptoms starting. Eligible individuals can receive a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir from any qualified healthcare provider, and there is no cost for the medication itself. The medication is also available at “test-to-treat” locations that can offer testing, a prescription, and the medication itself at one location. For more information about accessing COVID-19 treatment, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/what-to-do-if-you-feel-sick or call 1-800-232-0233.

Guidance for people exposed to COVID-19

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive. 

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,210 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 7 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

The total number of new cases in Transylvania County remains low and new cases have decreased 71% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of April 14, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps based on new cases and hospital impact.

North Carolina Data

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard, is now updated weekly on Wednesdays. As of April 20, NCDHHS is reporting an increase in the wastewater monitoring metric from 2.1 million to 5.1 million virus particles per person. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms remain steady at 2% of all ED visits. New cases of COVID-19 increased 67% (from 4,851 to 7,279) and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 increased slightly (from 242 to 278). Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 52% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. As of April 9, about 78% of the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were Omicron BA.2 and 22% were BA.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 95 counties in North Carolina are currently in the low (green) level, 5 are medium (yellow), and none are high (orange). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current Mask Recommendations

Several major airlines have announced that they would no longer be requiring masks on flights after a federal judge struck down a nationwide mask requirement on public transit earlier this week. The mask requirement was extended until May 3 due to concerns about an uptick in cases in the Northeast, but Transportation Security Administration officials said they would not enforce the mandate while they determine whether to appeal the judge’s decision. However, the CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time, and some transit operators may continue to require masks in their facilities.

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 17 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,205 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 11 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Although the total number of new cases in Transylvania County remains low, new cases have increased 240% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. As of April 7, Transylvania County remains in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps based on new cases and hospital impact.

North Carolina Data

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard is now updated weekly on Wednesdays. As of April 13, NCDHHS is reporting an increase in the wastewater monitoring metric but a low and level percentage of emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms. New cases of COVID-19 increased, but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 remained level. Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 52% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. As of April 2, about 60% of the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were Omicron BA.2 and 40% were BA.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 98 counties in North Carolina are currently in the low (green) level, 2 are medium (yellow), and none are high (orange). More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current Mask Recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,188 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 5 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 79% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, and the total number of new cases remains very low. As of March 31, Transylvania County is in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps based on new cases and hospital impact.

The cluster of 5 cases at Davidson River School will be closed, as it has been 28 days since the last cases were identified.

North Carolina Data

The NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard now includes data on early warning indicators, health system capacity, vaccines and boosters, and variant percentages, as well as the CDC’s Community Levels. This data will be updated weekly on Wednesdays.

In the past week, NCDHHS is reporting a slight increase in the wastewater monitoring metric, but a decrease in emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms. New cases of COVID-19 increased slightly, but new hospital admissions for COVID-19 decreased. Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 51% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose. Most of the COVID-19 variants detected by laboratory sequencing were Omicron BA.1. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 94 counties in North Carolina are currently in the low (green) level, 6 are medium (yellow), and none are high (orange).

More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current Mask Recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,184 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 5 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 56% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, and the total number of new cases remains very low. As of March 24, Transylvania County is in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps based on new cases and hospital impact.

The outbreak of 18 cases at The Oaks skilled nursing facility skilled nursing facility will be closed, as it has been 28 days since the last cases were identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 442 total cases and 22 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County. A total of 5 cases (all staff) have been identified in the cluster at Davidson River School.

North Carolina Data

Last week, NCDHHS revised its COVID-19 Dashboard to include data on early warning indicators, health system capacity, vaccines and boosters, and variant percentages, as well as the CDC’s Community Levels. This data will be updated weekly on Wednesdays.

Wastewater surveillance is a measure of the average number of COVID-19 virus copies found per person per week from participating wastewater treatment plants across the state. COVID-19 particles found in wastewater can signal how quickly the virus is spreading, even if people don’t get tested or have symptoms. This metric is level, with 1.2 million particles per person for the week ending March 23.

Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are level, accounting for about 2% of all visits to the emergency department in North Carolina. New cases of COVID-19 and new hospital admissions for COVID-19 are both decreasing. Statewide, 76% of adults and 38% of children and teens have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 50% of those have received at least one booster or additional dose.

Of the COVID-19 variants being detected by laboratory sequencing, 81.03% were Omicron BA.1 and 18.97% were BA.2 for the two weeks ending March 19. Based on the CDC’s Community Levels, 92 counties in North Carolina are currently in the low (green) level, 8 are medium (yellow), and none are high (orange).

More information is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Current Mask Recommendations

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 16 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 3 additional deaths, for a total of 6,177 cases and 77 deaths among county residents. Currently, 5 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 14% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days, but the total number of new cases has remained very low. In North Carolina, new cases, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms, and hospitalizations continue to decline. In the western North Carolina region, 22 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 8 of these are in intensive care units.

The outbreaks of 45 cases at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 2 cases at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, and 8 cases at College Walk assisted living facility will be closed, as it has been 28 days since the last cases were identified. A total of 18 cases have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 442 total cases and 22 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County. A total of 5 cases (all staff) has been identified in the cluster at Davidson River School.

As of March 17, Transylvania County is in the low (green) category of the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps based on new cases and hospital impact. In North Carolina, 92 counties are currently in the low (green) level and 8 are medium (yellow).

Healthcare providers such as hospitals and long-term care facilities will continue to determine certain prevention steps based on the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. Transylvania County is currently experiencing moderate (yellow) levels of community transmission, with about 32 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The map currently shows 18% of counties nationwide with high (red) levels of community transmission, 21% with substantial (orange) levels, 46% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 15% with low (blue) levels.

Last week, North Carolina released its plan for the next phase of COVID-19 response to include supporting flexible health system capacity, vaccination access through healthcare providers, testing, treatment, outbreak management, and contact tracing for high priority settings. NCDHHS will begin updating its COVID-19 Dashboard weekly on Wednesdays with data on wastewater surveillance, emergency department visits, hospital admissions, new cases, vaccination boosters, variant prevalence, and the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Level.

Testing continues to be recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 12 or older. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended, as well as a booster dose. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

Moderna has announced that it will apply for FDA emergency use authorization for its COVID-19 vaccine in ages 6 months to 6 years. The vaccine tested for this age group is one-fourth the adult dose, given as 2 doses 28 days apart. Data from clinical trials showed a similar immune response in these ages compared to adults who received 2 doses of its vaccine. While the vaccine was less effective at preventing symptomatic infection in children compared to clinical trials for older age groups, the efficacy was similar to what would be expected in response to the Omicron variant. Moderna has also applied for FDA authorization of its vaccine for ages 6-11 years and is updating its pending application for ages 12-17 years.

A total of 19,629 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,979 (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,511 have received a booster dose. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,240 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 77% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. People who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness (and those who have frequent close contact with someone at higher risk) may choose to wear a mask or respirator for additional protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask around other people.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 14 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 6,161 cases and 74 deaths among county residents. Currently, 7 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 30% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 6 new cases (43%) were children ages 0-17; 3 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 45 cases have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 2 cases in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, 8 cases in the outbreak at College Walk assisted living facility, and 18 cases in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. The outbreak of 17 cases at the Transylvania County Detention Center will be closed, as it has been 28 days since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 442 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 5 cases (all staff) has been identified at Davidson River School. A total of 73 cases have been associated with 9 clusters in school and childcare settings in Transylvania County since the pandemic began.

As of March 10, Transylvania County is in the low (green) category for the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps. This metric has low (green), medium (yellow), and high (orange) levels based on the total number of new COVID-19 cases in the past 7 days, the number of new hospital admissions for COVID-19, and the percent of hospital beds being used for COVID-19 patients. In North Carolina, 82 counties are currently in the low (green) level, 17 are medium (yellow), and 1 county is high (orange).

Healthcare providers such as hospitals and long-term care facilities will continue to determine certain prevention steps based on the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. Transylvania County is currently experiencing moderate (yellow) levels of community transmission, with about 38 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The map currently shows 27% of counties nationwide with high (red) levels of community transmission, 26% with substantial (orange) levels, 38% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 9% with low (blue) levels.

In North Carolina, new cases, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms, and hospitalizations continue to decline. In the western North Carolina region, 40 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 15 of these are in intensive care units.

New case numbers are low, but the virus is still circulating and some precautions are still needed.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 12 or older. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended, as well as a booster dose. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

A total of 19,614 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,973 (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,471 have received a booster dose. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,222 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 77% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. People in areas with medium (yellow) levels who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should talk to a healthcare provider about additional precautions such as wearing a mask indoors in public. In addition, people should consider wearing a mask when indoors around someone at high risk for severe illness. People in areas with high (orange) community levels should wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status or individual risk. Those who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should wear a mask or respirator that provides greater protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

However, anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask around other people.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. Students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19 unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 6,147 cases and 73 deaths among county residents. Currently, 11 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 21% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 5 new cases (26%) were children ages 0-17; 3 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 45 cases have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 2 cases in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, 8 cases in the outbreak at College Walk assisted living facility, and 19 cases in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 17 cases have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 442 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

The clusters of cases among an athletic team at Brevard College and in a classroom at Rosman Elementary School will be closed, as it has been 28 days since the last cases were identified.

As of March 4, Transylvania County is currently in the low (green) category for the CDC’s new COVID-19 Community Levels for determining prevention steps. This metric has low (green), medium (yellow), and high (orange) levels based on the total number of new COVID-19 cases in the past 7 days, the number of new hospital admissions for COVID-19, and the percent of hospital beds being used for COVID-19 patients. In North Carolina, 27 counties are currently in the low (green) level, 58 are medium (yellow), and 16 counties are high (orange).

Healthcare providers such as hospitals and long-term care facilities will continue to determine certain prevention steps based on the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission, with about 61 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The map currently shows 43% of counties nationwide with high (red) levels of community transmission, 31% with substantial (orange) levels, 22% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 4% with low (blue) levels.

In North Carolina, new cases, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms, and hospitalizations continue to decline. In the western North Carolina region, 49 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 19 of these are in intensive care units.

New case numbers are low, but the virus is still circulating and some precautions are still needed.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 12 or older. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended, as well as a booster dose. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

A total of 19,609 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,955 (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,439 have received a booster dose. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,219 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 77% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers.

New state guidance has lifted mandatory mask requirements in most state facilities (masks may still be required in some high-risk settings such as group living and healthcare) and NCDHHS recommended that North Carolina schools and local governments consider optional mask regulations. Federal facilities have been instructed to follow the CDC’s Community Levels to determine appropriate requirements. Masks are no longer required on school and childcare transportation, but continue to be required on public transit for now.

People in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk. People in areas with medium (yellow) levels who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should talk to a healthcare provider about additional precautions such as wearing a mask indoors in public. In addition, people should consider wearing a mask when indoors around someone at high risk for severe illness. People in areas with high (orange) community levels should wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status or individual risk. Those who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should wear a mask or respirator that provides greater protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently. Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

However, anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask around other people.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. As of February 21, students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19, unless they have symptoms or test positive.

The current guidance for people with symptoms, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 6,128 cases and 73 deaths among county residents. Currently, 10 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 58% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 3 new cases (13%) were children ages 0-17; 1 of these was a child ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 2 cases (both employees) has been identified at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility. A total of 45 cases (24 residents and 21 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 8 cases (4 residents and 4 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at College Walk assisted living facility, and 18 cases (3 residents and 15 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 17 cases (11 inmates and 6 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 444 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified among an athletic team at Brevard College. A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified in a classroom at Rosman Elementary School.

Although new cases continue to decline rapidly, Transylvania County is still experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission for now, with about 116 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows 69% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 21% experiencing substantial (orange) levels, 8% experiencing moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% experiencing low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, 96 counties are red and 4 are orange.

The CDC has introduced a new COVID-19 Community Levels metric to help determine local prevention steps. Low (green), medium (yellow), and high (orange) levels are based on the number new hospital admissions for COVID-19, the percent of hospital beds being used for COVID-19 patients, and the total number of new COVID-19 cases in the past 7 days. As of February 24, Transylvania County is currently in the low (green) level. In North Carolina, 73 counties are high (orange) and 26 are medium (yellow).

In North Carolina, new cases and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decline sharply and hospitalizations are decreasing. In the western North Carolina region, 77 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 21 of these are in intensive care units.

MASKS

The CDC has updated its mask recommendations based on its new Community Levels metric. Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, a positive test, or an exposure to someone with COVID-19 should continue to wear a mask around other people for the number of days recommended.

People living in areas with green (low) community levels should wear a mask based on personal preference, informed by their personal level of risk.

People living in areas with medium (yellow) levels who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should talk to a healthcare provider about additional precautions such as wearing a mask indoors in public. In addition, people should consider wearing a mask when indoors around someone at high risk for severe illness.

People living in areas with high (orange) community levels should wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status or individual risk. Those who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness should wear a mask or respirator that provides greater protection against the COVID-19 virus. This includes masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers, as well as N95 respirators, which offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently

Free N95 respirators from the state stockpile are still available as supplies allow at locations throughout the community, including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. As of February 21, students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19, unless they have symptoms or test positive.

VACCINATION

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended, as well as a booster dose. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

A total of 19,603 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,936 county residents (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,397 residents have received a booster dose. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,216 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 76% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit https://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19/ or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 57 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 6,104 cases and 71 deaths among county residents. Currently, 24 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 48% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 14 new cases (25%) were children ages 0-17; 9 of these were children ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 2 cases (both employees) has been identified at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility. A total of 44 cases (24 residents and 20 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 8 cases (4 residents and 4 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at College Walk assisted living facility, and 18 cases (3 residents and 15 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 20 cases (11 inmates and 9 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 443 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 22 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified among an athletic team at Brevard College.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified in a classroom at Rosman Elementary School. Multiple cases have been reported in other school and childcare settings but do not meet the definition of a cluster.

Although new cases are declining rapidly, Transylvania County is still experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission for now, with about 177 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows 85% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 12% experiencing substantial (orange) levels, 2% experiencing moderate (yellow) levels, and 1% experiencing low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, 97 counties are red and 3 are orange.

In North Carolina, new cases and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decline sharply and hospitalizations are decreasing. In the western North Carolina region, 140 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 27 of these are in intensive care units.

MASKS

Transylvania Public Health continues to partner with organizations throughout the community to distribute N95 respirators from the state stockpile. Free N95 respirators will be available as supplies allow at locations including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone older than age 2 should wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission.

The CDC recommends that individuals wear the most protective mask they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently. People should choose a mask that fits closely to their face without gaps along the sides or around the nose and is comfortable enough to be worn properly as long as needed. Masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers can provide higher levels of protection, and N95 respirators offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

People should consider wearing a more protective mask in situations where they are at higher risk of exposure to the virus. Individuals who are at increased risk for severe illness and those who are not up to date on recommended COVID-19 vaccinations should also consider choosing a mask with higher levels of protection.

More information about choosing a mask and how to wear masks properly is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/masks.html.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Free drive-through testing is now available at the Henderson County Health Department, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; registration is recommended online at https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/health/page/covid-19-testing-informationTesting. Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days. As of February 21, students and staff in K-12 schools and childcare facilities in North Carolina are not required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19, unless they have symptoms or test positive.

VACCINATION

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended, as well as a booster dose. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

A total of 19,562 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,873 county residents (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,245 residents have received a booster dose. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,197 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 76% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit http://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19 or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 109 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 6,047 cases and 70 deaths among county residents. Currently, 41 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 25% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 25 new cases (23%) were children ages 0-17; 19 of these were children ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 7 cases (4 residents and 3 employees) has been identified at College Walk assisted living facility. A total of 42 cases (20 residents and 22 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, and 18 cases (3 residents and 15 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 20 cases (11 inmates and 9 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 438 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 21 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified among an athletic team at Brevard College.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified in a classroom at Rosman Elementary School. Multiple cases have been reported in other school and childcare settings but do not meet the definition of a cluster.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 337 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows 94% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

In North Carolina, new cases and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decline sharply and hospitalizations are decreasing. In the western North Carolina region, 163 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 26 of these are in intensive care units.

NCDHHS released updated guidance to its StrongSchoolsNC toolkit, focusing on strategies that are most effective at this stage of the pandemic such as vaccines and boosters, testing, and masking. Starting February 21, students and staff in K-12 schools will no longer be required to stay home from school after a close contact to someone with COVID-19, unless they have symptoms or test positive. Schools should notify students and staff of their potential exposure in school settings, and individuals who have been notified of an exposure should take precautions such as wearing a mask for 10 days after their last known exposure and seeking testing immediately if symptomatic or 5 days after their last known exposure. A similar update will soon be released for childcare facilities in North Carolina.

MASKS

Transylvania Public Health is partnering with organizations throughout the community to distribute N95 respirators from the state stockpile. Free N95 respirators will be available as supplies allow at locations including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone older than age 2 should wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission.

The CDC recommends that individuals wear the most protective mask they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently. People should choose a mask that fits closely to their face without gaps along the sides or around the nose and is comfortable enough to be worn properly as long as needed. Masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers can provide higher levels of protection, and N95 respirators offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

People should consider wearing a more protective mask in situations where they are at higher risk of exposure to the virus. Individuals who are at increased risk for severe illness and those who are not up to date on recommended COVID-19 vaccinations should also consider choosing a mask with higher levels of protection.

More information about choosing a mask and how to wear masks properly is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/masks.html.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Free drive-through testing is now available at the Henderson County Health Department, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; registration is recommended online at https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/health/page/covid-19-testing-informationTesting. Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

VACCINATION

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

The FDA postponed its vaccine advisory committee meeting scheduled for February 15 to give members time to review data from Pfizer related to a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 4 years.

This week, the CDC released updated recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised to shorten the length of time to receive a booster and clarify the need for additional mRNA doses after an initial Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The new guidelines recommend that immunocompromised people who initially received an mRNA vaccine series from Pfizer or Moderna should receive a total of 4 doses: 3 doses in the primary series and a booster dose 3 months after the last dose. Immunocompromised people who initially received a single dose of J&J vaccine should receive an additional dose of an mRNA vaccine and a booster dose (preferably of an mRNA vaccine) 2 months the second dose.

A total of 19,557 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,854 county residents (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,200 residents have received a booster dose. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,182 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 76% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit http://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19 or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 142 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 5,938 cases and 68 deaths among county residents. Currently, 72 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 28% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 40 new cases (28%) were children ages 0-17; 28 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 33 cases (15 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, and 17 cases (3 residents and 14 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. The outbreak at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility with 21 cases (12 residents and 9 employees) will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 16 cases (9 inmates and 7 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 422 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 20 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified among an athletic team at Brevard College.

A cluster of 5 cases (4 students and 1 staff) has been identified in a classroom at Rosman Elementary School. Multiple cases have been reported in other school and childcare settings but do not meet the definition of a cluster.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 471 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows over 99% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

New cases in North Carolina remain elevated but have decreased significantly since their peak in January 13. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are also decreasing sharply. Statewide, hospitalizations remain high but are decreasing. In the western North Carolina region, 224 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 32 of these are in intensive care units.

MASKS

Transylvania Public Health has received additional supplies of N95 respirators from the state stockpile, and are partnering with organizations throughout the county to distribute them to community members. Free N95 respirators will be available as supplies last at locations including the Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Jarrett’s IGA, and Sharing House.

Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone older than age 2 should wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission.

The CDC recommends that individuals wear the most protective mask they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently. People should choose a mask that fits closely to their face without gaps along the sides or around the nose and is comfortable enough to be worn properly as long as needed. Masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers can provide higher levels of protection, and N95 respirators offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

People should consider wearing a more protective mask in situations where they are at higher risk of exposure to the virus. Individuals who are at increased risk for severe illness and those who are not up to date on recommended COVID-19 vaccinations should also consider choosing a mask with higher levels of protection.

More information about choosing a mask and how to wear masks properly is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/masks.html.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Free drive-through testing is now available at the Henderson County Health Department, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; registration is recommended online at https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/health/page/covid-19-testing-informationTesting. Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

VACCINATION

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

The FDA has granted full approval to the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, which will be marketed under the name Spikevax. The FDA’s vaccine advisory committee is scheduled to meet on February 15 to discuss applications for emergency use authorization of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 4 years as well as Novavax’s protein-based COVID-19 vaccine.

A total of 19,501 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,748 county residents (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,029 residents have received a booster dose. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,109 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 75% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit http://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19 or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 197 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 5 additional deaths, for a total of 5,796 cases and 66 deaths among county residents. Currently, 94 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 29% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 36 new cases (18%) were children ages 0-17; 28 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 32 cases (14 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 21 cases (12 residents and 9 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility, and 15 cases (3 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. The outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility with 16 cases (13 residents and 3 employees) and 1 death will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 14 cases (8 inmates and 6 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 417 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 20 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 631 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows over 99% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

New cases in North Carolina remain elevated but have decreased significantly since their peak on January 13, 2022. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are also decreasing. Statewide, hospitalizations remain high but are starting to decrease slightly. In the western North Carolina region, 266 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 49 of these are in intensive care units.

MASKS

Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone older than age 2 should wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission.

The CDC recommends that individuals wear the most protective mask they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently. People should choose a mask that fits closely to their face without gaps along the sides or around the nose and is comfortable enough to be worn properly as long as needed. Masks with tighter woven fabric and more layers can provide higher levels of protection, and N95 respirators offer the highest levels of protection if worn correctly and consistently.

People should consider wearing a more protective mask in situations where they are at higher risk of exposure to the virus. Individuals who are at increased risk for severe illness and those who are not up to date on recommended COVID-19 vaccinations should also consider choosing a mask with higher levels of protection.

Transylvania Public Health is distributing free N95 respirators from the state stockpile at locations throughout the county. These respirators will be available as supplies allow at community locations including Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Hillview Headstart, Jarrett’s IGA, North Toxaway Baptist Church, Quebec Community Center, SAFE Inc., Sharing House, Silvermont, and Tiger Town Thrift Store.

More information about choosing a mask and how to wear masks properly is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/masks.html.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Free drive-through testing is now available at the Henderson County Health Department, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; registration is recommended online at https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/health/page/covid-19-testing-informationTesting. Additional testing locations can be found at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing.

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

VACCINATION

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death from COVID-19. Those who have been vaccinated are also less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms, especially if they have received a booster dose.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

This week, the FDA granted full approval to the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, which will be marketed under the name Spikevax.

Pfizer-BioNTech have requested FDA emergency use authorization for a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months up to 5 years old and are continuing to test a three-dose version. The vaccine for younger children is about one-third of the dose for ages 5-11 and one-tenth of the dose for ages 12 and up. The two-dose vaccine produced a similar level of protection as seen in adults for ages 6 months to 2 years. Since the immune response was lower for ages 2-4 years, the company is continuing its trial to include a third dose given eight weeks after the second dose to further boost immunity.

The pharmaceutical company Novavax has applied for FDA emergency authorization for its protein-based COVID-19 vaccine, given as two doses spaced three weeks apart. The Novavax vaccine uses a more conventional vaccine technology similar to the influenza vaccine. It was initially selected for financing from Operation Warp Speed in 2020 but was slower to market than other manufacturers. Novavax reports that its vaccine was protective against earlier variants and can generate an immune response against Omicron. It has already received authorization from Indonesia, the World Health Organization and the European Commission.

A total of 19,501 Transylvania County residents (57%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,748 county residents (55%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 11,029 residents have received a booster dose. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,109 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 65% of all people in North Carolina and 75% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit http://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19 or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 277 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 5,599 cases and 61 deaths among county residents. Currently, 178 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 11% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 64 new cases (23%) were children ages 0-17; 41 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 28 cases (11 residents and 17 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 16 cases (13 residents and 3 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, 21 cases (12 residents and 9 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility, and 12 cases (all employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 23 cases have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 424 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 20 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Cases have been identified in multiple school and childcare settings but case investigations are still ongoing and no clusters have been identified at this time. A cluster is defined as 5 or more cases with a common source within 14 days.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 387 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. The CDC’s Community Transmission Map currently shows over 99% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

New cases in North Carolina remain high but have begun to decrease from the peak on January 13, 2022. In Transylvania County, the highest number of positive cases on a single day was 81 cases tested on January 10, 2022, and the highest number of positive cases in a 7-day period was 371 cases tested January 7-14, 2022.

Statewide, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms have begun to decrease slightly, but hospitalizations continue to rise. In the western North Carolina region, 280 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 44 of these are in intensive care units.

MASKS

Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone older than age 2 should wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission. While all masks offer some level of protection against the spread of the COVID-19 virus, some masks and respirators offer higher protection than others but may be harder to wear consistently and correctly. The CDC recommends that individuals wear the most protective mask they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently.

Loosely woven cloth provides the least protection, multi-layered tightly woven cloth provides more protection, well-fitting surgical masks and KN95s offer even more protection, and well-fitting NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection. However, any mask or respirator will be less protective if they fit poorly or are taken on and off frequently.

Individuals should choose a mask that fits closely to their face without gaps along the sides or around the nose and is comfortable enough to be worn properly as long as needed. Fit is usually better with masks that have nose wires and straps that attach behind the head instead of ear loops. Individuals can improve fit of cloth and surgical masks by wearing a mask fitter or brace or by knotting the ear loops and tucking in excess fabric on the sides. Layering a cloth mask on top of a surgical mask can provide extra protection if N95 respirators are not feasible.

People may choose to wear a more protective mask in situations where they are at higher risk of exposure to the virus, such as when caring for someone with COVID-19, when working a job that requires interacting with members of the public who are not consistently wearing masks, when riding on public transportation especially for longer times, and in crowded settings or when physical distancing is not possible. Individuals who are at increased risk for severe illness including older adults, those with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems, and those who are not up to date on recommended COVID-19 vaccinations should also consider choosing a mask with higher levels of protection.

Transylvania Public Health is distributing free N95 respirators from the state stockpile at locations throughout the county. These respirators will be available as supplies allow at community locations including Transylvania County Library, Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, Hillview Headstart, Jarrett’s IGA, North Toxaway Baptist Church, Quebec Community Center, SAFE Inc., Silvermont, and Tiger Town Thrift Store.

More information about choosing a mask and how to wear masks properly is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/masks.html.

TESTING

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing for COVID-19 may be limited at some facilities, as demand is very high. Testing is usually available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. Testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.) Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are now available by mail from https://www.covidtests.gov/. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc.

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

VACCINATION

With the Omicron variant circulating, more infections are occurring among people who have been vaccinated or who have already recovered from COVID-19. However, vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and death, especially when followed by a booster dose. Recent studies show that people who have received a booster dose are less likely to get COVID-19 and less likely to develop symptoms. Vaccination plus a booster dose was 90% effective at preventing hospitalizations and 82% effective at preventing emergency department and urgent care visits since the Omicron variant began circulating.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is currently recommended for everyone ages 5 and older and booster doses are recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, everyone ages 12 or older who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago, or both doses of the Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago. Individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people.

A total of 19,412 Transylvania County residents (56%) have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, 18,683 county residents (54%) have received a full primary series (either 2 doses of Pfizer or Modera or 1 dose of J&J), and 10,910 residents have received a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This includes all providers in all counties in North Carolina, but does not include people vaccinated in other states. Transylvania Public Health has given a total of 22,077 doses of COVID-19 vaccines including boosters. About 64% of all people in North Carolina and 76% of all people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is offering all COVID-19 vaccines by appointment only. Appointments can be made online at https://transylvaniahealth.org/ or by calling 828-884-4007. All COVID-19 vaccinations are available, including single doses of Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older, first and second doses of Pfizer for ages 5 and older, first and second doses of Moderna for ages 18 and older, additional doses of Pfizer and Moderna for immunocompromised individuals, and booster doses for ages 12 and older. For second, additional, or booster doses, people should bring the vaccination card(s) given when they received previous dose(s).

COVID-19 vaccines are also available in Transylvania County from Blue Ridge Health Center-Brevard Health Center, Gordon’s Family Pharmacy, Ingles Pharmacy, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, and some private providers. Specific availability of each vaccine may vary; contact each provider for more information about which vaccines they are currently offering.

For more information, visit http://transylvaniahealth.org/covid-19 or call 828-884-4007.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 313 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 5,322 cases and 59 deaths among county residents. Currently, 143 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 11% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 95 new cases (30%) were children ages 0-17; 65 of these were children ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 5 cases (all employees) has been identified at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. A total of 20 cases (9 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 16 cases (13 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, and 23 cases (13 residents and 10 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility. A total of 4 cases have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 390 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 20 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

The clusters associated with the Brevard High School JV Basketball team and a classroom at Brevard Elementary School will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. Cases have been identified in multiple other school and childcare settings but case investigations are still ongoing.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 604 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days. Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 99% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

North Carolina continues to report high numbers of new cases statewide, with a record high of 44,833 new cases reported on January 13. In Transylvania County, the highest number of positive cases on a single day was 70 cases tested on January 11, 2022, and the highest number of positive cases in a 7-day period was 352 cases tested on January 7-14, 2022.

Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms and hospitalizations continue to increase statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 260 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 54 of these are in intensive care units.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing for COVID-19 may be limited at some facilities, as demand is very high. Testing is usually available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. Testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are now available by mail. Each residential household is eligible a set of 4 test kits to be delivered by the US Postal Service. Orders can be placed online at https://www.covidtests.gov/.

At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Starting January 15, health insurance providers will pay for or reimburse the cost of test kits purchased in stores or online. For more information about insurance reimbursement, visit https://www.cms.gov/how-to-get-your-at-home-OTC-COVID-19-test-for-free.

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 281 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 5,010 cases and 57 deaths among county residents. Currently, 148 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 12% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 42 new cases (15%) were children ages 0-17; 25 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 6 cases have been identified in the outbreak at Accordius skilled nursing facility, 15 cases have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, and 20 cases have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility. A total of 4 cases have been identified in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. Since the start of the pandemic, 369 total cases and 21 total deaths associated with 19 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 7 cases (5 students and 2 staff) has been identified in the cluster associated with the Brevard High School JV Basketball team, and 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) have been identified in the cluster associated with a classroom at Brevard Elementary School. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. Cases have been identified in multiple other school and childcare settings but case investigations are still ongoing.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 791 new cases per 100,000 people. Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 99% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina.

North Carolina continues to report record-high new cases statewide, with the highest number of new cases since the pandemic began reported on January 7 and again on January 8. In Transylvania County, the highest number of positive cases on a single day was 56 cases tested on January 3, 2022, and the highest number of positive cases in a 7-day period was 276 cases tested on January 1-8, 2022.

Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms and hospitalizations continue to increase statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 220 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 57 of these are in intensive care units.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing for COVID-19 is currently limited, as demand is very high. Testing is usually available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

The current guidance for people who have positive test results for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or who have been in close contact to someone with COVID-19 is available on the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home and away from other people until 5 days have passed since their positive test results or their first symptoms developed; they may leave home after day 5 if they did not have symptoms or if their symptoms are resolving and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended, including booster shots if eligible for ages 18 and older, do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days and should be tested on day 5 after exposure (or immediately if they develop symptoms). Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who have not received boosters if eligible should stay at home for 5 days after their last exposure, be tested on day 5 (or immediately if they develop symptoms), and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 252 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 4,729 cases and 56 deaths among county residents. Currently, 162 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset or 5 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 107% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 32 new cases (14%) were children ages 0-17; 18 of these were children ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 6 cases (all employees) has been identified at Accordius skilled nursing facility. An outbreak of 5 cases (3 inmates and 2 employees) has been identified at the Transylvania County Detention Center. A total of 15 cases (13 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility and 17 cases (10 residents and 7 employees) have been identified at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 367 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 19 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 7 cases (5 students and 2 staff) has been identified in the cluster associated with the Brevard High School JV Basketball team, and 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) have been identified in the cluster associated with a classroom at Brevard Elementary School.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 474 new cases per 100,000 people. Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 96% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 2% with substantial (orange) levels, less than 1% with moderate (yellow) levels, and less than 1% with low (blue) levels. All counties in North Carolina are experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission.

North Carolina reported record-high numbers of new cases on December 30, December 31, and January 1, with the highest numbers of reported cases since the pandemic began. In Transylvania County, the previous one-day record high from January 2021 was surpassed on December 29, with 50 new positive test results.

Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms and hospitalizations are increasing rapidly in the state. In the western North Carolina region, 178 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 43 of these are in intensive care units.

The FDA has issued emergency use authorization for two oral anti-viral medications to treat COVID-19. These medications from Merck and Pfizer must be prescribed for an individual patient by a registered healthcare provider and dispensed by a pharmacy or dispensing provider. However, due to high demand and limited supplies, providers have been requested to limit all available COVID-19 therapies to people at the highest risk of severe illness based on immune status, age, vaccination status, and clinical risk factors.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 5 days after their last exposure. Testing for COVID-19 is currently limited, as demand is very high. Testing is usually available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home until 5 days have passed since their negative test results or their first symptoms developed; if they did not have symptoms or their symptoms are resolving and they do not have a fever, they may leave their house but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

People who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and are vaccinated as currently recommended (including booster shots if eligible) do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days; testing is recommended on day 5 after exposure. Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who are eligible but have not received a booster shot should quarantine at home for 5 days after their last exposure and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days; testing is recommended on day 5.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 122 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 4,477 cases and 54 deaths among county residents. Currently, 162 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 24% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 11 new cases (9%) were children ages 0-17; 4 of these were children ages 0-11.

An outbreak of 3 cases (all employees) has been identified at Kingsbridge House assisted living facility. A total of 15 cases (13 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 342 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 17 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 7 cases (5 students and 2 staff) has been identified in the JV Basketball team cluster at Brevard High School and 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) have been identified in the classroom cluster at Brevard Elementary School.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 140 new cases per 100,000 people. Public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 85% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 9% with substantial (orange) levels, 4% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% with low (blue) levels.

New cases, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations are increasing statewide, with some hospitals experiencing significant demand. In the western North Carolina region, 138 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 31 of these are in intensive care units.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19, 5 days after their last exposure. Testing is also recommended 1-2 days before travel or attending indoor gatherings and 3-5 days after travel or attending indoor gatherings. Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Testing locations in nearby counties can be found at:https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Earlier this week, the CDC released updated guidance for isolation and quarantine for COVID-19, based on new information about the virus and the Omicron variant.

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home until 5 days have passed since their negative test results or their first symptoms developed; if they did not have symptoms or their symptoms are resolving and they do not have a fever, they may leave their house but must continue to wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days.

The updated quarantine guidance for people who have been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 is based on vaccination status.

Close contacts who are unvaccinated or who were vaccinated with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines over 6 months ago or the J&J vaccine over 2 months ago and have not received a booster shot should quarantine at home for 5 days after their last exposure and then wear a mask around other people for 5 additional days; testing is recommended on day 5.

Close contacts who have received a booster dose of the vaccine or who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines within the last 6 months or the J&J vaccine within the last 2 months do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask around other people for 10 days; testing is recommended on day 5.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 161 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 4,355 cases and 54 deaths among county residents. Currently, 177 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 99% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 36 new cases (22%) were children ages 0-17; 18 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 12 cases (11 residents and 1 employee) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility. The outbreak of 4 cases at The Oaks skilled nursing facility will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 339 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 16 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of 7 cases (5 students and 2 staff) has been identified among people associated with the Brevard High School JV Basketball team, and a cluster of 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) has been identified among people associated with a classroom at Brevard Elementary School. Multiple other cases have been identified among people associated with local schools, but they do not meet the definition of a cluster, which must include at least 5 cases with a shared exposure.

At least 49 cases have been identified among students and staff at Brevard College, including a cluster related to an off-campus social event.

Transylvania County is now experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 430 new cases per 100,000 people. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 80% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 12% with substantial (orange) levels, 6% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 96 counties with high (red) levels of transmission and 4 counties with substantial (orange) levels.

Emergency department visits and hospitalizations are increasing statewide, with some hospitals already experiencing significant demand. In the western North Carolina region, 109 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 31 of these are in intensive care units.

Testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, and for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure, or 3-5 days after exposure for people who are fully vaccinated). Testing is also recommended 1-2 days before travel or attending indoor gatherings and 3-5 days after travel or attending indoor gatherings. Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home until 10 days have passed since their negative test results or their first symptoms developed, and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, and their other symptoms have improved. They should also identify and notify their close contacts that they have been exposed to the virus; this includes anyone who was within 6 feet of them for 15 minutes or more, starting 2 days before symptoms or the positive test. Those who have been tested by a healthcare provider or lab will be contacted by public health workers to assist with contact tracing; those who were testing using an at-home test kit should notify their contacts themselves.

Anyone who has been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 should quarantine at home for up to 14 days after their last exposure. People may leave quarantine earlier based on symptoms and testing, but must continue to follow all prevention steps including wearing a mask and monitoring their symptoms daily for the full 14 days. Exemptions to quarantine include people who have had COVID-19 within the past 90 days, people who are fully vaccinated and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, and people who were exposed in school settings and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 if both the person with COVID-19 and the close contact were wearing masks appropriately.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended for everyone ages 5 and older, and booster doses are now recommended for everyone ages 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago or both doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 6 months ago; individuals may choose any available brand for their booster dose, but evidence suggests that the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines may provide the best protection for most people. Booster doses of Pfizer are also recommended for everyone ages 16-17 who received both doses of Pfizer at least 6 months ago.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 81 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 4,194 cases and 53 deaths among county residents. Currently, 88 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 27% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 24 new cases (30%) were children ages 0-17; 11 of these were children ages 0-11.

A total of 12 cases (11 residents and 1 employee) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, and a total of 4 cases (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 336 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 16 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Statewide, new cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are all continuing to increase. In the western North Carolina region, 106 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 39 of these are in intensive care units. These rising trends are likely due to colder weather and Thanksgiving gatherings.

Transylvania County is now experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 160 new cases per 100,000 people. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 79% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 11% with substantial (orange) levels, 8% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 92 counties with high (red) levels of transmission and 8 counties with substantial (orange) levels.

Although the Omicron variant has now been identified in 35 US states, including North Carolina, the Delta variant continues to be the main variant circulating in the US. Omicron appears to be more contagious than the original virus, but early research suggests that boosters provide additional protection against the Omicron variant.

With the holidays approaching, cases rising, and the potential impact from this new variant, health officials continue to recommend that people take action to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. Officials recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible and getting a booster dose if eligible, getting tested for COVID-19 before attending any indoor gathering and before and after travel, and wearing a mask in indoor public places.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should seek testing immediately. Testing is also recommended for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure, or 3-5 days after exposure for people who are fully vaccinated). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home until 10 days have passed since their negative test results or their first symptoms developed, and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, and their other symptoms have improved. They should also identify and notify their close contacts that they have been exposed to the virus; this includes anyone who was within 6 feet of them for 15 minutes or more, starting 2 days before symptoms or the positive test. Those who have been tested by a healthcare provider or lab will be contacted by public health workers to assist with contact tracing; those who were testing using an at-home test kit should notify their contacts themselves.

Anyone who has been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 should quarantine at home for up to 14 days after their last exposure. People may leave quarantine earlier based on symptoms and testing, but must continue to follow all prevention steps including wearing a mask and monitoring their symptoms daily for the full 14 days. Exemptions to quarantine include people who have had COVID-19 within the past 90 days, people who are fully vaccinated and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, and people who were exposed in school settings and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 if both the person with COVID-19 and the close contact were wearing masks appropriately.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 64 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 4,113 cases and 53 deaths among county residents. Currently, 69 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 106% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 16 new cases (25%) were children ages 0-17; 11 of these were children ages 0-11 who were not yet able to be fully vaccinated.

A total of 5 cases (all residents) have been identified at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility, and a total of 4 cases (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 329 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 16 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Statewide, new cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are all increasing. In the western North Carolina region, 111 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 31 of these are in intensive care units.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, with about 189 new cases per 100,000 people. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 79% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 11% with substantial (orange) levels, 8% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 92 counties with high (red) levels of transmission, 7 counties with substantial (orange) levels, and 1 county with moderate (yellow) levels.

As of December 7, the Omicron variant has been identified in 19 US states. It is expected to spread more easily than the original COVID-19 virus, but data is not yet available on whether this variant will cause more severe illness or death compared to previous variants. Current vaccinations are expected to continue to protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death due to infection with the Omicron variant, but breakthrough infections among people who are fully vaccinated are expected. Scientists are working to determine how well existing treatments for COVID-19 will work against infections with this variant; based on changes to the genetic makeup of the Omicron variant, some treatments will likely remain effective while others may be less effective.

Vaccines remain the best tool to protect against COVID-19, slow transmission of the virus, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. Masks continue to offer protection against all variants, and are recommended in all public indoor settings where high or substantial spread is occurring. PCR and antigen tests for COVID-19 detect current infections of COVID-19, including those caused by the Omicron variant, but do not specify which variant caused the infection. Additional testing conducted by laboratories is being done to detect and report on the prevalence of multiple variants.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should seek testing immediately. Testing is also recommended for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure, or 3-5 days after exposure for people who are fully vaccinated). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

People who have COVID-19 must isolate at home until 10 days have passed since their negative test results or their first symptoms developed, and they have not had a fever for 24 hours, and their other symptoms have improved. They should also identify and notify their close contacts that they have been exposed to the virus; this includes anyone who was within 6 feet of them for 15 minutes or more, starting 2 days before symptoms or the positive test. Those who have been tested by a healthcare provider or lab will be contacted by public health workers to assist with contact tracing; those who were testing using an at-home test kit should notify their contacts themselves.

Anyone who has been identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 should quarantine at home for up to 14 days after their last exposure. People may leave quarantine earlier based on symptoms and testing, but must continue to follow all prevention steps including wearing a mask and monitoring their symptoms daily for the full 14 days. Exemptions to quarantine include people who have had COVID-19 within the past 90 days, people who are fully vaccinated and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, and people who were exposed in school settings and do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 if both the person with COVID-19 and the close contact were wearing masks appropriately.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 30 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 4,048 cases and 53 deaths among county residents. Currently, 35 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 15% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 5 new cases (17%) were children ages 0-17; 3 of these were children ages 0-11 who are not yet able to be fully vaccinated.

An outbreak of 2 cases (both residents) has been identified at Cedar Mountain House assisted living facility. A total of 4 cases (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 326 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 16 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Statewide, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms have begun to increase slightly. New cases and hospitalizations for COVID-19 remain level. In the western North Carolina region, 66 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 17 of these are in intensive care units.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission, with about 64 new cases per 100,000 people. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 66% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 13% with substantial (orange) levels, 15% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 6% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 56 counties with high (red) levels of transmission, 37 counties with substantial (orange) levels, and 7 counties with moderate (yellow) levels.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should seek testing immediately. Testing is also recommended for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure, or 3-5 days after exposure for people who are fully vaccinated), and for people who traveled over the Thanksgiving holiday. Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

This week, the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus was classified as a Variant of Concern. This variant has not yet been detected in the United States, but is spreading rapidly in multiple countries. Evidence is not yet available to suggest if the Omicron variant is more transmissible, if it causes more serious illness compared to previous variants, or if existing COVID-19 treatments and vaccinations will be continue to be effective. Early signs from South Africa suggest that it may cause mild illness, but other evidence suggests this variant can reinfect people more easily.

New variants of the virus are expected; the best way to slow the emergence of new variants is by taking steps to reduce the spread of infection, including vaccination, wearing a mask, and avoiding crowded spaces.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 4,018 cases and 52 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 4% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 7 new cases (29%) were children ages 0-17; 2 of these were children ages 0-11 who are not yet able to be fully vaccinated.

A total of 4 cases (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified at The Oaks assisted living facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 324 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 15 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Statewide, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease, new cases remain level, and hospitalizations for COVID-19 have risen in the past week. In the western North Carolina region, 63 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 20 of these are in intensive care units.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission, with about 70 new cases per 100,000 people. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 73% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 14% with substantial (orange) levels, 11% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 3% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 64 counties with high (red) levels of transmission, 30 counties with substantial (orange) levels, 5 counties with moderate (yellow) levels, and 1 county with low (blue) levels.

As people gather for Thanksgiving, the CDC recommends taking precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19, such as wearing a mask indoors in public settings and especially during travel on public transportation, avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, and celebrating outdoors if possible.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and not attend any Thanksgiving activities or other public events, and should seek testing immediately. Testing is also recommended for anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure, or 3-5 days after exposure for people who are fully vaccinated). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 25 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 2 additional deaths, for a total of 3,992 cases and 51 deaths among county residents. Currently, 30 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 22% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 7 new cases (28%) were children ages 0-17; 2 of these were children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be fully vaccinated.

An outbreak of 4 cases (2 residents and 2 employees) has been identified at The Oaks assisted living facility. Since the start of the pandemic, 324 total cases and 20 total deaths associated with 15 outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Statewide, emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease, but new cases and hospitalizations for COVID-19 have been level for the past few weeks. In the western North Carolina region, 71 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 27 of these are in intensive care units.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 71% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 15% with substantial (orange) levels, 11% with moderate (yellow) levels, and 2% with low (blue) levels. In North Carolina, it shows 64 counties with high (red) levels of transmission, 31 counties with substantial (orange) levels, 4 counties with moderate (yellow) levels, and 1 county with low (blue) levels.

Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 and anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 32 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 3,967 cases and 49 deaths among county residents. Currently, 41 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 33% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 5 new cases (16%) were children ages 0-17; 3 of these were children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

Statewide, new cases and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease, but are decreasing more slowly than in recent weeks. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 are leveling. In the western North Carolina region, 77 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 31 of these are in intensive care units.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 70% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission, 17% experiencing substantial (orange) levels, and 11% experiencing moderate (yellow) levels. In North Carolina, 32 counties are currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of transmission and 8 counties are experiencing moderate (yellow) levels of transmission.

Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 and anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 3,935 cases and 49 deaths among county residents. Currently, 24 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 20% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 2 new cases (8%) were children ages 0-17; 1 of these was a child ages 0-11 who is not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

The outbreak of 5 cases (all employees) at Cedar Mountain House will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 320 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Transylvania County is currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of community transmission. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities, public health officials continue to recommend that everyone wear a mask in indoor public spaces in areas of high or substantial levels of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. This map currently shows 74% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission and 16% experiencing substantial (orange) levels. In North Carolina, 18 counties are currently experiencing substantial (orange) levels of transmission and 4 counties are experiencing moderate (yellow) levels of transmission.

New cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 84 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 28 of these are in intensive care units.

Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 and anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing. (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 30 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 3,911 cases and 49 deaths among county residents. Currently, 30 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have increased 20% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 5 new cases (17%) were children ages 0-17; 4 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

A total of 5 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. The outbreaks of 8 cases (2 inmates and 6 employees) at the Transylvania County Detention Center and 9 cases (7 residents and 2 employees) at College Walk will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 320 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

The CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 79% of counties nationwide experiencing high (red) levels of community transmission and 14% experiencing sustained (orange) levels. In North Carolina, 15 counties including Transylvania County are currently experiencing sustained (orange) levels of transmission and 2 counties are experiencing moderate (yellow) levels of transmission. New cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 119 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 44 of these are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional COVID-19 death, for a total of 3,881 cases and 49 deaths among county residents. Currently, 36 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 67% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 6 new cases (25%) were children ages 0-17; 5 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

A total of 8 cases (2 inmates and 6 employees) have been reported in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. A total of 5 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. A total of 9 cases (7 residents and 2 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at College Walk. The outbreak of 3 cases (all employees) at Accordius has been closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 320 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

The school-based cluster of 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) associated with a classroom at Rosman Elementary School will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

The CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 85% of counties nationwide experiencing high levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina. However, new cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms all continue to decrease statewide, with hospitalizations dropping below 2,000 for the first time since August. In the western North Carolina region, 162 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 68 of these are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 74 additional cases of COVID-19 and 3 additional deaths in the past week, for a total of 3,857 cases and 48 deaths among county residents. Currently, 81 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 17% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 25 new cases (33%) were children ages 0-17; 16 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

A total of 8 cases (2 inmates and 6 employees) have been reported in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. A total of 9 cases (7 residents and 2 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at College Walk. A total of 3 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Accordius. A total of 3 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. Since the start of the pandemic, 320 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) have been identified in a school-based cluster at Rosman Elementary School.

The CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 89% of counties nationwide experiencing high levels of community transmission. In North Carolina, 99 of 100 counties, including Transylvania County remain at high transmission levels. However, new cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms continue to decrease statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 179 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 68 of these individuals are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 87 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional deaths in the past week, for a total of 3,783 cases and 45 deaths among county residents. Currently, 116 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

New cases in Transylvania County have decreased 37% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 23 new cases (26%) were children ages 0-17; 18 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

A total of 8 cases (2 inmates and 6 employees) have been reported in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. A total of 9 cases (7 residents and 2 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at College Walk. A total of 3 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Accordius. A total of 3 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. Since the start of the pandemic, 318 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff) have been identified in a school-based cluster at Rosman Elementary School.

The cluster of 6 cases associated with the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

The CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 93% of counties nationwide experiencing high levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina. However, new cases, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are all decreasing statewide. In the western North Carolina region, 217 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 66 of these are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 137 additional cases of COVID-19 and 4 additional deaths in the past week, for a total of 3,696 cases and 43 deaths among county residents. Currently, 151 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

This week, the CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 95% of counties nationwide experiencing high levels of community transmission, including all counties in North Carolina. Statewide, new cases are leveling and emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms are decreasing. However, new cases in Transylvania County increased 5% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 44 new cases (32%) were children ages 0-17; 13 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

A total of 7 cases (2 inmates and 5 employees) have been reported in the outbreak at the Transylvania County Detention Center. A total of 8 cases (7 residents and 1 employee) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at College Walk. A total of 2 cases (both employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Accordius. A total of 3 cases (all employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. The outbreak of 24 cases (11 residents and 13 employees) at The Oaks will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. Since the start of the pandemic, 314 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A total of 6 cases (5 students and 1 staff) been identified in a school-based cluster at Rosman Elementary School. The cluster of 9 cases (6 students and 3 staff) associated with the Rosman High School football team will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified. A total of 6 cases have been reported in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services.

Hospitalizations for COVID-19 remain high but have decreased nearly 20% since the peak at the beginning of September. In the western North Carolina region, 220 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 66 of these are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 130 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death in the past week, for a total of 3,559 cases and 39 deaths among county residents. Currently, 139 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

The CDC’s Community Transmission Map shows 67% of counties nationwide are considered areas of high community transmission, which is an improvement over recent weeks, but all counties in North Carolina remain in the high category. New cases in Transylvania County decreased 3% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 42 new cases (32%) were children ages 0-17; 28 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

An outbreak of 6 cases has been identified at the Transylvania County Detention Center, including 4 employees and 2 inmates. An outbreak of 6 cases have been identified among residents at College Walk. A total of 2 cases (both employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Accordius. A total of 2 cases (both employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at Cedar Mountain House. A total of 24 cases (11 residents and 13 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. Since the start of the pandemic, 311 total cases associated with 14 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of at least 6 cases has been identified at Rosman Elementary School, including 5 students and 1 staff. A total of 9 cases (including 6 students and 3 staff) have been reported in the cluster associated with the Rosman High School football team. A total of 7 cases have been reported in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services. The workplace cluster of 8 cases associated with Transylvania County Department of Social Services will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last linked case was identified.

Hospitalizations across the state remain high but have decreased slightly over the past week. In the western North Carolina region, 271 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 78 of these are in intensive care units.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 134 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death in the past week, for a total of 3,429 cases and 38 deaths among county residents. Currently, 163 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Transylvania County remains in a high level of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map, but new cases in Transylvania County decreased 25% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 58 new cases (43%) were children ages 0-17; 14 of these were in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

Outbreaks of COVID-19 are defined as 2 or more cases in a group living facility within 14 days; this includes nursing homes, assisted living facilities, correctional facilities, and other settings where people live for an extended period in shared spaces. Outbreaks remain open until there is no evidence of ongoing transmission, which is when 28 days have passed since the test date or symptom onset of the last case.

Outbreaks have been identified among employees at Accordius (2 employees) and Cedar Mountain House (2 employees). A total of 24 cases of COVID-19 (11 residents and 13 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. Since the start of the pandemic, 299 total cases associated with 12 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

Clusters of COVID-19 cases include 5 or more cases within 14 days with a common exposure or shared linkage. Clusters can occur in any setting, including schools and childcare centers, workplaces, retail and personal care services, restaurants and bars, camps, colleges, healthcare settings, and other community or private events. In order to report a cluster, public health staff must receive reports of 5 cases with test results verified by a laboratory or healthcare provider (not at-home tests) and must identify a plausible link between the cases. Clusters will remain open until 28 days have passed since the test date or symptom onset of the last case.

A total of 9 cases (including 6 students and 3 staff) have been identified in the cluster associated with the Rosman High School football team. A total of 7 cases have been identified in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services. A total of 8 cases have been identified in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Department of Social Services.

The cluster of cases associated with the Brevard Middle School football team (including 5 students) and the cluster of cases associated with The Wilds camp (including 9 Transylvania County residents) will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last linked case was identified.

Hospitalizations across the state remain very high but have decreased slightly from the record highs reported in the first weeks of September. In the western North Carolina region, 296 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 83 of these are in intensive care units. Most people hospitalized for COVID-19 are ages 30-60 and have not been vaccinated.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 176 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 3,295 cases and 37 deaths among county residents. Currently, 220 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

A new cluster of 9 cases (including 6 students and 3 staff) have been identified among students associated with the Rosman High School football team.

A total of 5 cases (all students) have been identified in the cluster associated with the Brevard Middle School football team. A total of 7 cases have been identified in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services. A total of 8 cases have been identified in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Department of Social Services. A total of 84 cases have been associated with The Wilds camp, including 9 Transylvania County residents. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

A total of 24 cases of COVID-19 (11 residents and 13 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. Since the start of the pandemic, 295 total cases associated with 10 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

The cluster of cases associated with a summer school program at Pisgah Forest Elementary School (including 4 students and 2 teachers who normally attend Brevard Elementary and PFE) will be closed, as 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

For yet another week, Transylvania County remains in a high level of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. Cases in Transylvania County increased 19% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 66 new cases (37%) were children ages 0-17 and 39 (22%) were in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

Hospitalizations across the state remain at the highest levels since the pandemic began and healthcare systems are being strained. In the western North Carolina region, 282 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 79 of these are in intensive care units. Most people hospitalized for COVID-19 are ages 30-60 and have not been vaccinated.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 147 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week and 1 additional death, for a total of 3,119 cases and 37 deaths among county residents. Currently, 145 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

A total of 24 cases of COVID-19 (11 residents and 13 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. Since the start of the pandemic, 295 total cases associated with 10 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A workplace cluster of 7 cases of COVID-19 has been identified among employees at Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services. A total of 8 cases have been identified in the workplace cluster at Transylvania County Department of Social Services. A total of 84 cases have been associated with The Wilds camp, including 9 Transylvania County residents.

A total of 5 cases have been identified among students associated with the Brevard Middle School football team. A total of 6 cases (4 students and 2 teachers) have been identified in the school cluster associated with a summer school program at Pisgah Forest Elementary School; this outbreak includes students and staff who normally attend Brevard Elementary and PFE. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. Many additional cases have been identified among people who work at county businesses and who attend or work at county schools, but a cluster requires at least 5 lab-confirmed cases with a common exposure within 14 days.

Like all of North Carolina and most of the country, Transylvania County remains in a high level of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. The rapid growth in new cases may be starting to slow, but the current level of transmission remains very high. Hospitalizations across the state remain at the highest levels since the pandemic began. In the western North Carolina region, 297 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19; 75 of these are in intensive care units.

Cases in Transylvania County increased 19% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 39 new cases (27%) are children ages 0-17 and 21 (14%) are in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

Due to the high levels of COVID-19 circulating throughout the nation, the CDC has recommended that people who are not fully vaccinated do not travel over the holiday weekend, and those who are fully vaccinated should carefully consider the risk when determining whether to travel and should take precautions if they decide to travel.

Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 and anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 124 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death in the past week, for a total of 2,972 cases and 36 deaths among county residents. Currently, 153 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

A total of 9 cases of COVID-19 (5 residents and 4 employees) have been reported in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. The outbreak at Kingsbridge House will be close, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. Since the start of the pandemic, 279 total cases associated with 10 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities in Transylvania County.

A cluster of at least 5 cases of COVID-19 has been identified among students associated with the Brevard Middle School football team. Testing of all players was completed on August 20 and those who tested negative were allowed to resume practice. A total of 6 cases (4 students and 2 teachers) have been identified in the school cluster associated with a summer school program at Pisgah Forest Elementary School; this outbreak includes students and staff who normally attend Brevard Elementary and PFE.

A workplace cluster of at least 5 cases of COVID-19 has been identified among employees at Transylvania County Department of Social Services. A total of 80 cases have been associated with The Wilds camp, including 6 Transylvania County residents. The workplace cluster of 5 cases associated with Haywood EMC will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Transylvania County remains in a high level of transmission as defined by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. New cases of COVID-19 continue to increase statewide and throughout the nation. Hospitalizations in North Carolina remain high.

Cases in Transylvania County increased 4% in the past 7 days compared to the previous 7 days. Of the new cases reported in the past 7 days, 41 new cases (33%) are children ages 0-17 and 22 (18%) are in children ages 0-11 who are not eligible to be vaccinated.

Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 and anyone who has been a close contact to someone with COVID-19 (5-7 days after their last exposure). Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County at private healthcare providers, CVS, Mercy Urgent Care, Pardee Urgent Care, and Walgreens. At-home test kits are also available for purchase at local stores and for free by request at https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/nc. Additional testing locations in nearby counties can be found at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid-19/testing (Please note that Transylvania Public Health does NOT offer COVID-19 testing for the general public.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 130 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional deaths in the past week, for a total of 2,848 cases and 35 deaths among county residents. Currently, 144 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

A total of 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been reported in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House and 2 cases have been reported (both employees) in an outbreak at The Oaks. These outbreaks will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 272 cases associated with 10 total outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities since the start of the pandemic.

A total of 5 cases (2 students and 3 teachers) were identified in the school cluster associated with a summer school program at Pisgah Forest Elementary School. A total of 5 cases were identified in the worksite cluster associated with Haywood EMC. A total of 80 cases have been associated with The Wilds camp, including 6 Transylvania County residents. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 125 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,718 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 129 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of a cluster of 5 cases associated with a summer school program at Pisgah Forest Elementary School. Cases were identified in 2 students and 3 teachers from Brevard Elementary and Pisgah Forest Elementary participating together on the PFE campus. The program has ended but the cluster will remain open until 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

At least 80 cases of COVID-19 in 16 states have been associated The Wilds camp. A total of 48 staff members and 32 campers who attended between June 28 and July 31 have been identified; 6 of these individuals are Transylvania County residents and are included in our overall case counts. (One case originally identified as a Colorado resident has been reclassified as a Transylvania County resident, so 1 state has been removed from the totals.)

A total of 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been reported in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House and 2 cases have been reported (both employees) in the outbreak at The Oaks, resulting in 2 new clusters in congregate living facilities. A total of 272 cases associated with 8 previous outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities since the start of the pandemic.

A total of 5 cases were identified in the worksite cluster associated with Haywood EMC. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

North Carolina had a record-high jump in new hospital admissions for COVID-19 on Monday, August 10. This is the single highest day of new admissions since the pandemic began and weekly hospital admissions among people ages 20-49 are at an all-time high.

In western North Carolina, 157 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19, with 36% of those being treated in intensive care units.

Like most of the country, Transylvania County is identified as an area of high transmission of COVID-19 by the CDC’s Community Transmission Map. Transylvania Public Health continues to recommend “layered” protection against COVID-19, which includes vaccination, face masks in indoor public settings, social distancing, handwashing, and avoiding crowded places and large groups of people.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 93 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,593 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 92 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 2 cases of COVID-19 among employees at Kingsbridge House and 2 cases of COVID-19 among employees at The Oaks, resulting in 2 new clusters in congregate living facilities. A total of 272 cases associated with 8 previous outbreaks have been identified in congregate living facilities since the start of the pandemic.

At least 80 cases of COVID-19 in 17 states have been associated with campers and staff who attended The Wilds camp between June 28 and July 17; 5 of these individuals are Transylvania County residents and are included in our overall case counts.

A total of 5 cases been identified in the worksite cluster associated with Haywood EMC.

The outbreak associated with Met By Love Ministries will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

On July 29, Governor Cooper issued a new Executive Order with guidelines for private businesses, organizations, and schools. NCDHHS also released updated guidance for all people in North Carolina with recommendations to help show the spread of COVID-19 with the highly-contagious Delta variant now circulating widely.

NCDHHS recommends that people who are not fully vaccinated receive a vaccination as soon as possible, wear a face covering in all indoor public settings, wait 6 feet apart in all public settings, wash hands often, not gather with unvaccinated people who live in other households, not travel (or get tested 1-3 days before and 3-5 days after travel and quarantine for 7 days after travel), quarantine if exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 and participate in any routine screening testing offered.

People who are fully vaccinated should wear a mask in indoor public spaces if they live in an area of high or substantial transmission. They should also wear a face covering in all K-12 schools, child care, and other indoor settings with a large number of children or child-focused activities, as will as in public transportation and health care settings and other crowded indoor venues. Fully vaccinated people should get tested if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 3-5 days after an exposure to someone with COVID-19 (they should wear a mask around others until they receive negative test results).

Businesses should require employees to report vaccination status and require employees who are not fully vaccinated to wear a face covering indoors, maintain 6 feet of distance from others, and participate in routine screening testing for COVID-19, especially in high-risk settings like long-term care facilities. Businesses in areas of high or substantial transmission should encourage fully vaccinated employees to wear a face covering indoors when within 6 feet of other people and should post signage that all employees and visitors should wear a face covering. Businesses should also remind all employees and visitors to self-monitor and get tested if they have symptoms of COVID-19.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 53 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,500 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 70 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 5 cases of COVID-19 associated with Haywood EMC, resulting in a worksite cluster.

At least 75 cases of COVID-19 in 17 states have been associated with campers and staff who attended The Wilds camp between June 28 and July 17; only 4 of these individuals are Transylvania County residents and are included in our overall case counts.

The outbreak associated with Met By Love Ministries will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Based on the highly-contagious Delta variant circulating in the U.S., the CDC has issued new guidance for fully vaccinated people. People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Fully vaccinated people should wear face masks in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission. They might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of community transmission, especially if they or someone in their household is immune compromised or at increased risk of severe illness, or if someone in their household is not vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated people who have a known exposure to someone with COVID-19 do not have to quarantine unless they have symptoms, but should be tested 3-5 days after their exposure and should wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 34 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week as well as 5 cases from 2020 that were not reported at the time of testing, for a total of 2,447 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 33 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

At least 58 cases of COVID-19 in 14 states have been associated with campers and staff who attended The Wilds camp between June 28 and July 10. Only 4 of these individuals are Transylvania County residents and are included in our overall case counts.

The outbreak associated with Met By Love Ministries will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week as well as 3 cases from 2020 that were not reported at the time of testing, for a total of 2,408 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 12 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 10 new cases of COVID-19 associated with Met By Love Ministries, resulting in an “outbreak” in a group living facility. These cases were likely exposed during travel outside the state.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been reported in at least 4 states among campers who attended The Wilds camp between June 28 and July 10; because these individuals are not Transylvania County residents, they will not be included in our overall case counts. At this time, The Wilds is testing and quarantining camp staff, notifying campers who attended during sessions in which cases were reported, cancelling the upcoming session, and implementing additional actions to limit the spread of COVID-19 among campers and staff. Transylvania Public Health has recommended testing of all local staffers and incoming campers. Public health staff will continue to provide access to free rapid testing resources for camps as well as technical assistance in implementing the state guidance for summer camps.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,393 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 2 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).  Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. (Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The Delta variant is now the dominant strain of COVID-19 virus in the U.S., now accounting for an estimated 51% of all COVID-19 cases nationwide and up to 80% of new cases in some Midwestern and Western states. This variant is more contagious than other variants and may lead to more serious illness.

Early studies from the U.K. suggest a possible increased risk of hospitalization among people infected with the Delta variant and found that younger age groups are more likely to be infected. Symptoms may be somewhat different compared to the original COVID-19 virus, with fewer people reporting cough and loss of smell; the most common symptoms in areas where the Delta variant is dominant include headache, sore throat, runny nose and fever.

The best protection against the Delta COVID-19 variant continues to be vaccination. This variant is spreading most rapidly in areas with low vaccination rates, and research is showing that the current COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the Delta variant. Recent studies in several countries showed between 79 and 88% protection after two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. On Monday, Israel released a study showing 64% effectiveness against all COVID-19 infections (down from 95% in May before the Delta variant was dominant) and about 93% effective at preventing serious illness and hospitalization. Last week, Moderna announced study results that found its vaccine to protect against all current COVID-19 variants, including Delta, although antibody response to the Delta strain was two times weaker than to the original COVID-19 strain. Similarly, Johnson & Johnson announced last week that its one-dose vaccine offers strong protection against the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus based on antibody and immune system response in laboratory studies.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,392 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 1 county resident is in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).  Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. (Please note that this data does NOT include people who may test positive for COVID-19 using at-home tests that can be purchased in retail stores.)

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Since April 2021, cases of myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart) have been reported in some people who have received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. These cases are most common among male teens and young adults. For most of these people, symptoms began within a few days following the second dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. The chance of having myocarditis or pericarditis after a COVID-19 vaccine is still very low, but it is higher than normally seen for these populations.

Myocarditis and pericarditis are much more common if you get a COVID-19 infection, and the risks to the heart from COVID-19 infection can be more severe. Therefore, the US DHHS, CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics, and other medical and public health groups all continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 12 years of age and older due to the risks of these and other serious complications related to COVID-19, such as hospitalization, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), or death. View their joint statement.

On Friday, the FDA announced revisions to patient and provider factsheets for the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to include the increased risks of myocarditis and pericarditis, particularly following the second dose of vaccine. Updated factsheets are available online: Moderna (patient and provider) and Pfizer-BioNTech (patient and provider). The FDA and CDC are monitoring these reports, collecting more information, and will follow up to assess longer-term outcomes over several months.

People should seek medical attention right away if they have chest pain, shortness of breath, or feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart after receiving an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

There have not been similar reports among people who received the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,391 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 4 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,389 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 3 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 in the past week, for a total of 2,385 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 7 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 since our last update on May 28, for a total of 2,376 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 5 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 5 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,376 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. All 12 cases being reported today were initially tested in November through April but were not previously included in our case counts due to delayed reporting from labs and individuals who were not identified as county residents. These cases are included in the data below based on their original date of testing, not the date they were reported.

Currently, 6 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 6 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting no additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,364 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 6 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 10 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting no additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,364 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 6 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 11 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,364 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 8 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 12 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,363 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 11 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 13 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,359 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 16 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,355 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 15 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,354 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 18 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,353 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 25 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,351 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 26 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The clusters of COVID-19 cases at Brevard College will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 16 cases were associated with an on-campus gathering and 31 cases were associated with 3 athletic teams.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 2,344 cases and 33 deaths among county residents. Currently, 29 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 26 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 31 cases associated with 3 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Today, the CDC released guidance that fully vaccinated people may stop wearing masks and maintaining social distance in most indoor and outdoor settings, except when required by other mandates or requirements. Several recent studies have shown that vaccines are more than 90% effective at preventing mild and severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths in real-world settings. Exceptions to the new guidance include when visiting healthcare facilities, hospitals, and long-term care facilities; when traveling on planes, buses, trains, or other public transportation and when in airports and transit stations; and when visiting group living settings like prisons, jails, and homeless shelters.

For now, though, North Carolina still requires that all people ages 5 or older wear a face covering in all public indoor settings if other people are present. Face masks are recommended for unvaccinated people in public outdoor settings if you cannot maintain 6 feet of distance from people you don’t live with, and for everyone in crowded outdoor settings. All people are required to wear face masks when inside a fitness or recreation center, inside any public or non-public school, and inside all businesses.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,341 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 27 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 28 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 31 cases associated with 3 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 12 through 15. North Carolina’s state health director has amended the standing order authorizing health care providers to administer COVID-19 vaccines to include the use of the Pfizer vaccine for adolescents ages 12 through 15.

North Carolina currently has nearly 800,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine. To assist in making this vaccine accessible across the state, NCDHHS is helping make connections between smaller vaccine providers who need limited quantities and larger vaccine providers who have the ultra-cold freezer capacity required for the Pfizer vaccine. In Western North Carolina, Mission Hospital has agreed to serve as a regional hub for distribution of the Pfizer vaccine to local vaccine providers.

To find providers with the Pfizer vaccine, visit MySpot.nc.gov and filter for Pfizer.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,337 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 26 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 29 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 31 cases associated with 3 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,329 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 26 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 31 cases associated with 3 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,327 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 35 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 23 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,320 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 47 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 39 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The Mountain Area Health Education Center in Asheville has opened a post-acute COVID-19 care clinic to provide individualized treatment for people who have lingering effects after a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Post-acute COVID—also known as long COVID, chronic COVID, or long-hauler syndrome—involves symptoms that last for more than two weeks after a diagnosis and can persist for 8 weeks or longer. Symptoms can include severe fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, reoccurring fevers, fast-beating or pounding heart, exercise intolerance, persistent cough, and difficulty thinking or concentrating. The clinic is open to new patients with a physician referral.

For more information, visit the MAHEC Post-Acute COVID-19 Care Clinic webpage.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 2,316 cases and 32 deaths among county residents. Currently, 66 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 47 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,311 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 72 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 53 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,306 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 74 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 55 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 23 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,305 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 91 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 59 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,282 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 92 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 58 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The CDC is reporting the first clusters of COVID-19 cases due to the B.1.351 variant not linked to travel. This variant was first identified in South Africa, and was detected in the US in January among a person who had traveled outside the country. Two clusters of the B.1.351 COVID-19 infections were found, with 17 total cases. The clusters were linked to an indoor social gathering and a worksite that was reported for not following COVID-19 safety protocols. Two people in these clusters were partially vaccinated and developed COVID-19 symptoms and one person was previously diagnosed with COVID-19 and developed symptoms. Two people were hospitalized and one of these people later died; neither of these people had been vaccinated.

The US will begin restricting travel from India due to the numbers of COVID-19 cases there. Some reports are citing the presence of the B.1.617 variant as the cause, but current data suggest that a significant factor may be the highly contagious B.1.1.7 variant, which has spread widely in the US and Britain. The US is delivering emergency supplies to India including oxygen, pulse oximeters, rapid tests, and N-95 masks.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,270 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 88 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 53 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

North Carolina’s COVID-19 trends remain stable: emergency department visits, daily new cases, percent of positive tests, and hospitalizations are all mostly level.

Starting this Friday, masks will no longer be required outdoors in North Carolina. (They will continue to be required indoors and are strongly recommended in outdoor crowded areas or higher risk settings and for people who are not vaccinated.) The mass gathering limit will be increased to 100 people indoors and 200 people outdoors. All other public health precautions including capacity limitations for businesses will remain in place.

As long as trends remain stable, North Carolina plans to lift social distancing, capacity, and mass gathering restrictions on June 1. The state plans to lift indoor mask requirements and other COVID-19 restrictions when 2/3 of people in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, as long as trends remain stable.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,259 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 84 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 50 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The CDC released updated guidance for people who are fully vaccinated. People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after they received their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after they received one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

These people no longer need to wear a mask outdoors except in certain crowded settings, like a live performance, parade, or sports event. As long as they do not have symptoms, they do not need to be restricted from work following an exposure to someone who has COVID-19. They may be exempted from routine screening testing if they do not have symptoms or an exposure.

Fully vaccinated people should continue to take precautions, which includes wearing a mask, in indoor public settings, when visiting indoors with unvaccinated people at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness or who have a household member who is at increased risk of severe COIVD-19 illness, and when visiting indoors with unvaccinated people from multiple households.

To view the complete recommendations for fully vaccinated people, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,252 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 92 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 50 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. These clusters will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is recommending that providers in the state resume administration of the vaccine now that the CDC and FDA have reaffirmed its safety.

Following a thorough safety review, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration have confidence that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 and recommend its continued use.

Administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was “paused” out of an abundance of caution after reports of a rare type of blood clot in individuals who received this vaccine.Nearly 8 million doses of the J&J vaccine have been given in the US. A total of 15 confirmed cases of this disorder have been reported, all in women and mostly in women ages 18-49; 3 women have died and 7 remain hospitalized. The overall risk for developing this disorder is very low (about 12 cases per million for women ages 30-39, or 7 cases per million for women ages 18-49, but less than 1 in a million for women ages 50 or older or men). If vaccinations resume for all adults, 26-45 more cases of the clotting disorder would be expected but 600-1,400 COVID-19 deaths would be prevented over the next 6 months.

After reviewing the available data, the FDA has determined that the vaccine’s known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older. Although the chance of this type of rare blood clot occurring is very low, the FDA and CDC will remain vigilant in continuing to investigate this risk.

The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 fact sheet for recipients has been updated to include information about the risk of this syndrome. 

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 22 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,247 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 92 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 51 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy will be closed since no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,225 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 104 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 61 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,218 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 98 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 66 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,210 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 96 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 70 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,204 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 103 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 79 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 19 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. The program will help with eligible expenses including the funeral, casket, clergy services, funeral home, headstone, burial plot, cremation, and the cost of an urn. Expenses are limited to a maximum payment of $9,000 per deceased individual and a maximum of $35,500 per applicant.

Survivors can apply for benefits by contacting FEMA toll-free at 844-684-6333. For more information, visit https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance/faq.

FEMA has also issued a warning that scammers are contacting people and offering to register them for the funeral assistance program. FEMA will not contact applicants until they have called the agency or have already applied for assistance.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 32 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,197 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 105 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 81 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 16 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,165 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 101 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 76 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 16 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,153 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 90 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 68 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases initially associated with an on-campus gathering and clusters of at least 16 cases associated with 2 athletic teams. A cluster is at least 5 cases identified within 14 days that have a common source of exposure. It can take some time to conduct the investigations necessary to determine if cases are associated with a cluster, so there may be a delay between when a case is initially reported and when it is added to a cluster.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. A cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 16 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,141 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 80 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 60 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 and 3 additional deaths today, for a total of 2,125 cases and 31 deaths among county residents. Currently, 69 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 53 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 27 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,117 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 66 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 46 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,090 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 74 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 30 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,086 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 74 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 39 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,082 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 75 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 52 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Multiple cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into several athletic teams. A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,073 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 71 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 45 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 15 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into multiple athletic teams.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 since our last report, for a total of 2,072 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 82 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 54 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard will be closed, as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) were identified in this outbreak, and 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in the cluster associated with a sports team at Brevard Academy.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 14 cases associated with an on-campus gathering and additional spread into multiple athletic teams.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 18 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,048 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 90 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 71 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among a sports team at Brevard Academy. A total of 12 cases have been associated with this cluster.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 13 cases associated with an on-campus gathering among athletes and other students.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 2,030 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 73 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 61 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among a sports team at Brevard Academy. A total of 12 cases have been associated with this cluster.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 10 cases associated with an athletic team.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 10 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 2,029 cases and 28 deaths among county residents. Currently, 74 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 61 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among a sports team at Brevard Academy. A total of 12 cases have been associated with this cluster.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 10 cases associated with an athletic team.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 20 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 2,019 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 68 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 52 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among a sports team at Brevard Academy. A total of 9 cases have been associated with this cluster.

Several cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 9 cases associated with an athletic team.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 21 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,999 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 58 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 39 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among a sports team at Brevard Academy. A total of 8 cases have been associated with this cluster.

Several new cases of COVID-19 have been identified at Brevard College, including a cluster of at least 7 cases associated with an athletic team.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,978 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 43 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 23 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting no additional cases of COVID-19 today. There have been a total of 1,969 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 42 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 24 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,969 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 44 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 27 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,962 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 54 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 25 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,958 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 50 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 25 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,950 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 44 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 28 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,948 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 45 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 32 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,944 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 42 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 28 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,939 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 60 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 38 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Please note: Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

The outbreak at The Oaks will be closed as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with this cluster. A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 52 cases and 3 deaths associated with 2 outbreaks at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,935 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 56 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 36 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Please note: Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

The cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College will be closed as no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with this cluster.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,923 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 48 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 30 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

(Please note: Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are much lower. This is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.)

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,917 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 47 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 27 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 256 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 17 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Transylvania Public Health is still reporting a high percent of positive tests even though new cases are very low. This high percent positive is mostly due to low overall testing numbers and the fact that not all local testing providers report negative tests to us electronically.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 13 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death over the weekend, for a total of 1,914 cases and 27 deaths among county residents. Currently, 52 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 29 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 254 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 15 cases of COVID-19 (7 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases and 3 deaths associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,901 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 60 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 40 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 251 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 12 cases of COVID-19 (4 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,899 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 63 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 47 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 251 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 12 cases of COVID-19 (4 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,893 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 62 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 52 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 251 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 12 cases of COVID-19 (4 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,891 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 67 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 54 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 251 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 12 cases of COVID-19 (4 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 83 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius, 6 cases associated with Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 64 cases and 4 deaths associated with Kingsbridge House, and 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,886 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 66 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 55 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The outbreak at Kingsbridge House will be closed, as it has been 28 days since a new case has been identified. A total of 64 cases (43 residents and 21 employees) and 4 deaths have been associated with this outbreak. A total of 251 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 12 cases of COVID-19 (4 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 6 cases of COVID-19 in the recent outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,862 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 64 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 49 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 249 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 64 cases (43 residents and 21 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 6 cases of COVID-19 in the recent outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases associated with the College Walk assisted living facility, 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,853 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 66 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 45 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility will be closed, as it has been 28 days since a new case has been identified. A total of 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been associated with this outbreak. A total of 249 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 64 cases (43 residents and 21 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. The cumulative total also includes 6 cases of COVID-19 in the recent outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,842 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 62 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 41 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 5 cases of COVID-19 in the recent outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,838 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 65 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 44 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 5 cases of COVID-19 in the recent outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,832 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 63 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 47 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster among an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. The second cluster associated with an athletic team at Brevard College, with 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff member), has been closed.

The outbreak of 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) at Cedar Mountain House will be closed, as it has been over 28 days since a new case has been associated with this facility. A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,813 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 75 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 55 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

One of the clusters of COVID-19 cases among athletic teams at Brevard College will be closed, as it has been 28 days since a case has been identified. A total of 7 cases (6 students and 1 staff member) were associated with this cluster. The other cluster will remain open, as the last case associated with this cluster was identified on Feb. 10. A total of 11 cases (10 students and 1 staff member) have been associated with the ongoing cluster.

A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,808 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 79 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 58 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 16 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional deaths today, for a total of 1,801 cases and 26 deaths among county residents. Currently, 78 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 65 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 16 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 247 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 10 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (31 residents and 17 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,794 cases and 24 deaths among county residents. Currently, 79 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 61 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 16 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 245 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 8 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 6 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 34 cases (20 residents and 14 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 63 cases (43 residents and 20 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 48 cases (32 residents and 16 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,760 cases and 24 deaths among county residents. Currently, 97 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 60 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters. These clusters will be active until 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 14 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,752 cases and 23 deaths among county residents. Currently, 100 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 69 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters. These clusters will be active until 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 14 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 3 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,738 cases and 22 deaths among county residents. Currently, 89 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 73 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. A total of 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters. These clusters will be active until 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 13 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 2 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,735 cases and 22 deaths among county residents. Currently, 95 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 93 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. As of today, 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters. These clusters will be active until 28 days have passed since the last case was identified.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 13 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 2 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 29 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend and 3 additional deaths today, for a total of 1,730 cases and 22 deaths among county residents. Currently, 109 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 93 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. As of today, 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 13 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 4 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 2 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 18 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,701 cases and 19 deaths among county residents. Currently, 140 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 106 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. As of today, 15 students and 2 staff members have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 240 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 3 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 46 cases (30 residents and 16 employees) and 2 deaths have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,683 cases and 18 deaths among county residents. Currently, 146 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 107 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Two clusters of COVID-19 cases have been identified among athletic teams at Brevard College. As of today, 11 students and 2 staff member have been associated with these clusters.

A total of 239 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 3 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 45 cases (29 residents and 16 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 22* additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,664 cases and 18 deaths among county residents. Currently, 146 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 125 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County. (*Please note that 10 of these new cases are from positive tests in December and January at a single test provider that have just been reported to us.)

A total of 235 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 3 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 41 cases (27 residents and 14 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,642 cases and 18 deaths among county residents. Currently, 151 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 114 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 230 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 3 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 36 cases (23 residents and 13 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 41 additional cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional deaths over the weekend, for a total of 1,637 cases and 17 deaths among county residents. Currently, 160 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 139 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 228 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 33 cases (20 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 3 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 34 cases (22 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 1,596 cases and 15 deaths among county residents. Currently, 159 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 143 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 227 cases of COVID-19 and 9 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 32 cases (19 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 34 cases (22 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 37 additional cases of COVID-19, for a total of 1,577 cases and 15 deaths among county residents. Currently, 153 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 140 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 224 cases of COVID-19 and 9 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 7 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the current outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, 5 cases (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 31 cases (18 residents and 13 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 62 cases (43 residents and 19 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 32 cases (20 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the current outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 death today, for a total of 1,540 cases and 15 deaths among county residents. Currently, 134 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 113 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 2 new cases of COVID-19 among residents at Accordius Health at Brevard, resulting in an “outbreak” in a skilled nursing facility. A total of 213 cases of COVID-19 and 9 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 30 cases of COVID-19 (18 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 29 cases (17 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 31 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,529 cases and 14 deaths among county residents. Currently, 144 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 121 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 211 cases of COVID-19 and 9 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 30 cases of COVID-19 (18 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 29 cases (17 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 44 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,498 cases and 14 deaths among county residents. Currently, 137 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 102 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 196 cases of COVID-19 and 9 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. Of these, 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 30 cases of COVID-19 (18 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 2 deaths have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 14 cases (2 residents and 12 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. This total also includes 4 cases of COVID-19 associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with a previous outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 16 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,454 cases and 14 deaths among county residents. Currently, 171 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 128 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 26 cases of COVID-19 (14 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 191 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 10 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,438 cases and 13 deaths among county residents. Currently, 172 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 138 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 26 cases of COVID-19 (14 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 191 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,428 cases and 13 deaths among county residents. Currently, 173 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 155 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 1 new case has been associated with an outbreak in a long-term care facility. A total of 5 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 26 cases of COVID-19 (14 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 191 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 1,409 cases and 13 deaths among county residents. Currently, 165 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 154 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 4 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 26 cases of COVID-19 (14 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 190 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 70 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,397 cases and 12 deaths among county residents. Currently, 190 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 192 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Over the weekend, 5 new cases were reported associated with outbreaks in long-term care facilities. A total of 4 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 26 cases of COVID-19 (14 residents and 12 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 60 cases (41 residents and 19 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 190 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,327 cases and 12 deaths among county residents. Currently, 217 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 186 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, a total of 4 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 24 cases of COVID-19 (13 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 185 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

NCDHHS has just released new guidance for vaccine distribution to align with federal priorities while empowering local health departments and hospitals with flexibility to move to the next priority group as they complete phases and have vaccines available.

GROUP 1 (formerly Phase 1a): Transylvania Public Health will continue offering vaccines to people eligible to receive the vaccine in Phase 1a, which has been expanded to include all healthcare workers with direct patient contact and long-term care residents and staff, including skilled nursing facilities, adult care homes and continuing care retirement communities.

GROUP 2 (formerly Phase 1b Group 1): This week, Transylvania Public Health began offering vaccines for people 75 years or older, regardless of health status or living condition. As of January 14, new NCDHHS guidance will expands this new Group 2 to include people ages 65 or older. It will take several weeks to offer vaccine to everyone in this group.

GROUP 3 (formerly Phase 1b Groups 2 and 3): This group includes essential frontline workers of any age. The CDC defines frontline essential workers as first responders, corrections officers, food and agricultural workers, postal service workers, manufacturing workers, grocery store workers, public transit workers, education staff, and childcare workers. A timeline for completing this group will depend on vaccine supplies and the number of people in these categories who want a vaccine.

GROUP 4 (formerly Phase 2 Group 2): This group now includes anyone 16-65 years old with have medical conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, people who are incarcerated or living in other close group living settings, and other essential workers. The CDC defines these essential workers as those in in transportation and logistics, water and wastewater, food service, shelter and housing (e.g., construction), finance (e.g., bank tellers), information technology and communications, energy, legal, media, public safety (e.g., engineers) and public health workers. By the time we get to Group 4, we anticipate that vaccine supply will be more plentiful and options for vaccinations will be available in places like grocery stores and pharmacies.

GROUP 5 (formerly Phase 4): Finally, vaccines will be offered to everyone who wants a one.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 27 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,301 cases and 12 deaths among county residents. Currently, 212 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 187 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 1 new COVID-19 case and 1 new death were reported in the ongoing outbreaks in long-term care facilities in Transylvania County. A total of 4 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 24 cases of COVID-19 (13 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) and 1 death have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 13 cases (2 residents and 11 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 185 cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 18 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,274 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 203 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 194 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 4 cases of COVID-19 (2 residents and 2 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 24 cases of COVID-19 (13 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 12 cases (2 residents and 10 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 184 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 50 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,256 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 200 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 195 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 24 cases of COVID-19 (13 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 12 cases (2 residents and 10 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 182 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 64 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 1,206 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 173 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 177 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 24 cases of COVID-19 (13 residents and 11 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 12 cases (2 residents and 10 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 182 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 27 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,142 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 192 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 154 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 19 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 10 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 11 cases (2 residents and 9 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 165 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 33 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,115 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 179 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 160 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 19 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 10 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 57 cases (39 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 11 cases (2 residents and 9 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 165 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 18 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,082 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 157 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 150 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 18 cases of COVID-19 (9 residents and 9 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 49 cases (31 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 11 cases (2 residents and 9 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 165 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 32 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 1,064 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 146 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 158 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 48 cases (30 residents and 18 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 14 cases of COVID-19 (8 residents and 6 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, and 11 cases (2 residents and 9 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 160 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 75 additional cases of COVID-19 and one additional death since the last update on Dec. 31, for a total of 1,032 cases and 11 deaths among county residents. Currently, 131 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 139 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Cedar Mountain House, 14 cases of COVID-19 (8 residents and 6 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 29 cases (19 residents and 10 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 11 cases (2 residents and 9 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 141 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 again today, for a total of 957 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 112 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 101 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 2 cases of COVID-19 (both employee) at Cedar Mountain House, resulting in an “outbreak” in an assisted living facility. As of today, 12 cases of COVID-19 (7 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 20 cases (10 residents and 10 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 10 cases (2 residents and 8 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 129 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 933 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 102 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 91 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 11 cases of COVID-19 (6 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 14 cases (6 residents and 8 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 10 cases (2 residents and 8 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 122 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 13 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 909 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 97 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 86 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 9 cases of COVID-19 (6 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at the College Walk assisted living facility, 8 cases (3 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 10 cases (2 residents and 8 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 114 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

North Carolina is currently providing COVID-19 vaccines to people in Phase 1a, which includes healthcare workers in contact with COVID-19 patients and long-term care staff and residents. In Phase 1a, vaccines will be distributed in closed settings open only to specific individuals pre-registered by their employer or facility. These individuals should receive more information about when and where they will be able to receive a vaccine from their employer.

As vaccines become more widely available, vaccines will be offered at clinics, pharmacies, and vaccine events in the community. When these providers begin offering vaccines, they will share information about how to sign up. In later phases, some recipients will be identified by their employer or facility. This includes people living or working in jails and shelters, healthcare workers not included in earlier phases, and students. Other individuals will self-identify as being eligible for a vaccine. This includes adults over age 65, those with chronic conditions that put them at risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and frontline workers at higher risk of exposure to the virus.

Last week, NCDHHS added data about vaccinations to the COVID-19 Dashboard. Vaccination counts will available for the state and each county, and includes statewide data by age group, race, ethnicity, and gender. This information will updated weekly on Tuesdays, based on data entered into North Carolina’s vaccine management system by providers. As of 8 pm on December 28, a total of 63,571 people in North Carolina and 48 people in Transylvania County had received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. For more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard/vaccinations.

NCDHHS and law enforcement have issued warnings about scams claiming to offer access to the COVID-19 vaccine or other treatments. These scams are attempting to collect financial or personal information or infect your device with malware. There is no waiting list for the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine will be free, and you cannot pay to receive it sooner. Do not attempt to purchase a vaccine, treatment, or “cure” over the phone or online. Talk to your doctor for more information, or contact Transylvania Public Health. If you receive an unsolicited call that seems suspicious, hang up and report the incident to www.bbb.org/scamtracker or the NC Attorney General’s office at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 52 additional cases of COVID-19 since the last update on Dec. 23, for a total of 896 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 98 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 100 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 4 cases of COVID-19 (3 residents and 1 employee) at College Walk, resulting in an “outbreak” in an assisted living facility. As of today, 8 cases of COVID-19 (3 residents and 5 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 10 cases (2 residents and 8 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 109 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 21 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 844 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 110 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 106 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 6 cases of COVID-19 (3 residents and 3 employees) have been identified in the outbreak at Kingsbridge House, and 10 cases (2 residents and 8 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 103 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services released an update to the COVID-19 County Alert System that identifies counties in North Carolina with the highest viral spread. Transylvania County is now in the Red/Critical Community Spread tier, due to 465.3 cases per 100,000 population over the past 14 days and 10.3% of positive tests over the past 14 days.

In addition to the actions recommended for all people in North Carolina to slow the spread of COVID-19 like wearing a face mask and social distancing, people who live in Red and Orange counties should take further steps due to the increased risk of exposure. People in Transylvania County should reduce public interactions to essential activities like work, school, buying groceries and medicine, and seeking health care. They should limit mixing between households, avoid settings where people gather, and use take-out rather than dining indoors at restaurants. People who are at high risk for serious illness from COVID-19 should stay home as much as possible. Businesses are strongly encouraged to implement working from home as much as possible and cancel any non-essential travel. Community and religious organizations should avoid any in-person indoor meetings, events, worship services, or other gatherings above the mass gathering limit.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 823 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 102 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 92 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 2 cases of COVID-19 among employees at Kingsbridge House, resulting in an “outbreak” in an assisted living facility. These cases were identified through routine surveillance testing. As of today, a total of 9 cases (2 residents and 7 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 98 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This included 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania County will be receiving its first doses of COVID-19 vaccine the week of December 21 and will begin giving vaccines the week of December 28. Transylvania Public Health anticipates receiving 400 doses of the Moderna vaccine in this first shipment. Other providers in the county are also slated to receive doses of the vaccine this week.

At this time, COVID-19 vaccine is only available to healthcare workers most likely to be exposed to COVID-19 as well as staff and residents in long-term care facilities. Once more supplies become available, vaccines will be offered at clinics, pharmacies, and vaccine events in the community. When these providers begin offering vaccines, they will share information about how to sign up.

View the Moderna Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers

Getting a COVID-19 vaccine adds one more layer of protection in our community’s efforts to slow the spread of this virus. A vaccine is an important step towards getting our families, communities, schools, and workplaces “back to normal” sooner.

However, we understand that some folks may have concerns about safety and effectiveness. Others may be anxious to know how quickly they will be able to receive a vaccine. Transylvania Public Health is working to provide accurate, fact-based information about the vaccine as quickly as we can to help you make the decisions that are right for you and your family. If you have further questions or concerns, please visit our COVID-19 Vaccine Information Page or call our nurse line at 828-884-4007. You can also visit the CDC COVID-19 Vaccines page or the NCDHHS COVID-19 Vaccine Information page.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 34 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 797 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 94 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 91 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, a total of 9 cases (2 residents and 7 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 96 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County since the start of this pandemic. This includes 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

The cluster of 10 cases at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team will be closed since no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Many of these new cases have been exposed through close contact during gatherings in homes and community locations. Transylvania Public Health urges our community members to take actions to prevent the spread of this virus: avoid gathering with people you do not live with, wear a face mask, stay at least 6 feet from others, and wash hands often.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 763 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 97 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 80 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

A total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 751 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 92 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 94 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days.

A total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 739 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 91 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 94 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. 

A total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 732 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 89 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 106 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 95 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 23 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 706 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 78 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 86 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. A total of 95 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 26 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 683 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 93 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 83 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 3 additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility, for a total of 8 cases (2 residents and 6 employees) and 1 death associated with this outbreak. A total of 95 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

One additional case has been associated with the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team, for a total of 10 cases (8 students and 2 staff) associated with this cluster.

(Corrected 12/11/20: This update originally reported 10 additional cases instead of 12 additional cases on 12/10/20. All other numbers were correct.)

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 12 additional cases and 1 additional death from COVID-19 today, for a total of 657 cases and 10 deaths among county residents. Currently, 68 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 60 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) and 1 death have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 7 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases and 6 deaths associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A total of 8 cases of COVID-19 were identified in the cluster associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. No new cases have been associated with this cluster in the past 14 days, so this cluster will be closed.

A total of 9 cases (7 students and 2 staff) have been identified in the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 19 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 645 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 60 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 68 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 9 cases (7 students and 2 staff) have been identified the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Across the state, key metrics are trending in the wrong direction. Visits to the emergency department for COVID-like symptoms are increasing, new cases per day are nearly twice what they were a month ago, the percentage of positive tests are increasing even as testing remains high, and hospitalizations are increasing, although most hospitals currently still have capacity to meet medical needs.

NCDHHS released an update to the COVID-19 County Alert System that identifies counties in North Carolina with the highest viral spread. As of today, 48 counties are Red/Critical, 34 counties are Orange/Substantial, and 18 counties are Yellow/Significant, compared to 20 Red, 42 Orange and 38 Yellow on November 23. Despite having 290.8 cases per 100,000 people in the past 14 days (above the Red threshold), Transylvania County continues to be ranked as Yellow due to a lower percent of positive tests over the past 14 days (7%) and low impact on hospitals that serve the county. The current County Alert System report is available at https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/dashboard/COVID-19-County-Alert-System-Report.pdf.

Because of these trends, Governor Cooper announced Executive Order 181 this afternoon. North Carolina will begin a Modified Stay at Home Order that requires people to stay at home between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. starting Friday, December 11 and lasting until at least Friday, January 8. This order requires restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, personal care businesses, and other businesses to close to the public at 10 p.m. Travel to and from work; to obtain food, medical care, fuel or social services; or to take care of a family member are exempted from this restriction. The governor warned that further actions would be taken if trends do not improve, such as further limits on restaurant dining, indoor entertainment or shopping, or retail capacity. The full Executive Order and FAQs are available at https://www.nc.gov/covid-19/covid-19-orders.

Other requirements from previous orders remain in place. Face coverings are mandatory for ages 5 and up indoors if non-household members are present and outdoors if within 6 feet of non-household members. The mass gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 50 outdoors. Alcohol sales for on-site consumption are prohibited after 9 p.m. Businesses must to adhere to requirements on capacity, social distancing, sanitation, and signage, and large retail stores over 15,000 square feet must have an employee at the door to enforce face coverings and capacity requirements. Complete guidance is available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance#phase-3-easing-of-restrictions.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 626 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 50 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 57 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 9 cases (7 students and 2 staff) have been identified the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 20 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 620 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 48 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test) and 55 cases were reported within the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 9 cases (7 students and 2 staff) have been identified the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Yesterday, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services released updated guidance to local health departments based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recent options for reducing the length of quarantine times for close contacts of people with COVID-19. Transylvania Public Health will begin using the updated criteria for quarantine starting today.

Quarantine is for people who have been in close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 15 minutes or more) to someone who has COVID-19. Quarantine for people who have been exposed but are not yet sick is an important step in disease prevention because people can spread COVID-19 to others 2 days before they begin to show symptoms of the virus. People under quarantine must remain at home except to seek medical care and must monitor their symptoms daily.

While the recommended quarantine period continues to be 14 days, current data demonstrate that 98% of people who are exposed to COVID-19 will develop symptoms within 10 days. Therefore, the quarantine period could be shortened for most people with only a small increase in the risk of spread. A shorter quarantine period may lead to improved compliance with quarantine requirements.

For the general public, quarantine after close contact to someone with COVID-19 may be ended if any of the following criteria are met:

• 14 days of quarantine have been completed
• 10 days of quarantine have been completed AND no symptoms have been reported during daily monitoring
• 7 days of quarantine have been completed AND no symptoms have been reported during daily monitoring AND a negative result on a diagnostic test taken no earlier than 5 days after the last contact (as long as testing supplies are sufficient).

People in Transylvania County who are currently in quarantine can discuss their options for ending quarantine earlier than 14 days on their daily calls for symptom monitoring from public health contact tracing staff.

If quarantine is ended before day 14, the person must continue to monitor their symptoms daily and must strictly follow all prevention steps including wearing a face covering, social distancing, and avoiding groups of people until 14 days have passed after their last exposure.

“The updated CDC guidance provides the community with a more expedited option for quarantine and that’s a positive step for helping the community navigate the challenges of a quarantine order,” said Transylvania County Health Director Elaine Russell. “However, we strongly encourage the public to remain vigilant for control measures given the continued rise in local cases and exposures.”

A full 14-day quarantine will continue to be used in group living settings where the risks of outbreaks are higher and the residents are often at higher risk of severe illness. This includes skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, group homes, and correctional facilities.

The test-based criteria will only be used if testing does not create a burden on diagnostic testing capacity. Only diagnostic testing such as PCR and antigen tests can be used to shorten the length of quarantine. Antibody test results will not be used for this purpose.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 600 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 56 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test), and 59 cases were reported within the past 7 days. The updated graphic is attached with additional information.

A total of 9 cases (7 students and 2 staff) have been identified the cluster at Rosman High School among people associated with the volleyball team. This cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 20 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 597 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 54 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test), and 60 new cases have been reported over the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A cluster of cases has been identified at Rosman High School, particularly among people associated with the volleyball team. This is the first cluster of cases identified in a school or childcare setting in Transylvania County. At this time, 7 students and 2 staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. While control measures were in place, these individuals attended school on Monday, Nov. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 1. Transylvania Public Health is working to identify and notify all students and staff who were close contacts to these individuals. School nurses have been working with the school to test individuals directly associated with this cluster. If parents would like their student to be tested for COVID-19, Transylvania Public Health recommends testing 5-7 days after their last exposure, which would be Saturday, Dec. 5 to Tuesday, Dec. 8.

Testing for COVID-19 is available in Transylvania County from many private providers, Blue Ridge Health, Mercy Urgent Care, and Pardee Urgent Care. Many of these providers are able to bill insurance for COVID-19 testing, but most require that people meet criteria to be tested such as having symptoms or being identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19. Drive-through testing is available 4-7 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays at Brevard Music Center; this site offers testing for people with or without symptoms and can bill insurance or is free for people without insurance. No-Cost Community Testing Sites supported by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services are located in nearby counties: upcoming testing is available in Henderson County 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8 at Blue Ridge Chimney Rock Health Center; in Jackson County 4-6 p.m. on Dec. 8 at Jackson Health Center. If people do not have a provider or their provider does not offer testing, they can call the Transylvania Public Health nurse line at 828-884-4007 for assistance in finding a test.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 577 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 38 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test), and 44 new cases have been reported over the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

A total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks skilled nursing facility. This outbreak will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County and work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. The cluster will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 569 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 37 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test), and 46 new cases have been reported over the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

One new case of COVID-19 has been reported at The Oaks, for a total of 5 cases (1 resident and 4 employees) associated with the ongoing outbreak in this skilled nursing facility. As of today, a total of 92 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding outside Transylvania County. Most of these people also work together at the Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse. This cluster was identified based on cases reported to Transylvania Public Health between Nov. 22 and 28. The cluster was reported to NCDHHS on Nov. 30 and will remain open until no new cases have been identified for 14 days. The staff members who tested positive were isolated from work for at least 10 days and close contacts have been notified. After the first cases were identified, Anchor Baptist opted to close their food distribution ministry and church services for 2 weeks out of an abundance of caution. Staff have been taking precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19, including taking temperatures and requiring masks for people who enter the warehouse and requiring gloves for those who handle produce. Anchor Baptist Missions Warehouse and Mission Store will reopen today with staff who have completed their isolation period and have been cleared to return to work.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 24 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 565 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 39 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test), and 53 new cases have been reported over the past 7 days. Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

One new case of COVID-19 has been reported at The Oaks, for a total of 4 cases (1 resident and 3 employees) associated with the ongoing outbreak in this skilled nursing facility. As of today, a total of 91 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

A cluster of 8 cases of COVID-19 has been associated with people who attended a wedding.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 yesterday and today, for a total of 541 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 36 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, a total of 3 cases (all employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 90 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 10 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 533 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 34 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, a total of 3 cases (all employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 90 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 523 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, a total of 3 cases (all employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 90 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 512 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 18 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

As of today, 3 cases (all employees) have been associated with the ongoing outbreak at The Oaks. A total of 90 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with all outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 501 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 21 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Transylvania Public Health has been notified of 3 new cases of COVID-19 among employees at The Oaks, resulting in an “outbreak” in a skilled nursing facility. These cases were identified through routine surveillance testing. As of today, a total of 90 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County, including 4 cases associated with a previous outbreak at The Oaks and 83 cases associated with an outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 499 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 20 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 493 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 21 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 489 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 485 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 19 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 479 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 27 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 470 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 20 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19. (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 469 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 466 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

NCDHHS has released new guidance for Thanksgiving celebrations and Black Friday shopping to help North Carolinians gauge the risks, protect their friends and loved ones, and slow the spread of COVID-19. Because our state is experiencing high numbers of COVID-19 cases, NCDHHS urges caution when gathering for Thanksgiving and other holiday celebrations, especially for gatherings that include people who are at a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19, such as anyone over the age of 65. Remember that mass gatherings are limited to no more than 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors. For more information, including lists of lower and higher risk activities, visit https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/guidance/NCDHHS-Interim-Guidance-for-Thanksgiving.pdf.

If you do plan on traveling or gathering, consider getting a COVID-19 screening test 3-4 days ahead of time. A screening test can help someone know if they have COVID-19 even if they do not have yet have symptoms. However, remember that a negative test only gives you information for that point in time and does not mean you will remain negative. Screening tests may miss some infections, particularly if done using rapid or “point of care” tests. Even if you have a negative test result, you should wear a mask, physically distance, avoid crowds and indoor crowded places, wash your hands frequently, monitor yourself for symptoms, and minimize contact with people at high risk of complications of COVID-19.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 462 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 453 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

The cluster of COVID-19 cases among students on an athletic team at Brevard College has been closed. In a community setting, a cluster is defined as five or more cases with shared exposures identified within 14 days. A total of 10 cases were associated with this cluster, and the last case was reported on 10/19/20. Additional cases have been reported among students and staff at Brevard College, but they have not been associated with this cluster.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 448 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 445 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 22 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 442 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 19 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 433 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 13 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). Click here for more information about cases in Transylvania County.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 429 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 27 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 428 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 29 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19.

The outbreak of COVID-19 associated with Accordius Health at Brevard is now considered closed. In a congregate living setting, an outbreak is defined as two or more positive cases identified among individuals associated with the facility within 28 days. It has been 28 days since the last reported case associated with this facility and there is no evidence of current transmission within the facility. A total of 83 cases (54 facility residents and 29 staff) and 6 deaths were associated with this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 423 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 25 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19.

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College. The last case associated with this cluster was reported on 10/19/20.

There is one ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 associated with congregate living facilities in Transylvania County; a total of 87 cases and 6 deaths have been associated with congregate living facility outbreaks. The last case associated with this outbreak was reported on 9/30/20.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 420 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 26 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania County has partnered with four other counties in Western North Carolina and WNC Healthy Impact in a social media campaign called #MyReasonWNC promoting COVID-19 prevention.

The campaign features people who live and work in Transylvania County sharing their reason for practicing the 3Ws: Wear, Wait and Wash.

This Facebook album features ads running in Transylvania County with the goal of increasing local engagement around COVID-19 prevention measures.

You can update your Facebook profile photo to align with the #MyReasonWNC campaign, and encourage others to do the same: Version 1 | Version 2

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 9 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 411 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 18 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College. This cluster will remain active until no new cases have been identified for 14 days. The last case associated with this cluster was reported on 10/19/20.

There is one ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 associated with congregate living facilities in Transylvania County; a total of 87 cases and 6 deaths have been associated with congregate living facility outbreaks. This outbreak will remain active until no new cases have been identified for 28 days. The last case associated with this outbreak was reported on 9/30/20.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 402 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 28 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 401 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 28 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Cases in North Carolina are rising, and have now surpassed the previous peak in July. Emergency department visits for COVID-like symptoms is leveling off but remains high, the percent of positive tests is above 5% and increasing, and hospitalizations are increasing. Capacity remains adequate for testing capacity, contact tracing, and PPE supplies. Because of these concerning trends, North Carolina will remain paused in Phase 3 for the next three weeks, until November 13. To see the Executive Order extending Phase 3 as well as other guidance for individuals, groups, businesses, and schools, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance#phase-3-easing-of-restrictions.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 396 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 24 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 394 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). 

As of today, a total of 10 students have been associated with a cluster identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 391 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 21 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College. As of today, 9 students have been associated with this cluster.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 11 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 386 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 33 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

A cluster of COVID-19 cases has been identified among students on an athletic team at Brevard College. As of today, 8 students have been associated with this cluster.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 6 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 375 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 23 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 369 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 18 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 4 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 365 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 14 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 7 additional cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, for a total of 361 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 16 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 2 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 352 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 13 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

The outbreak of COVID-19 associated with The Oaks is now considered closed. In a congregate living setting, an outbreak is defined as two or more positive cases identified among individuals associated with the facility within 28 days. It has been 28 days since the last reported case associated with this facility and there is no evidence of transmission within the facility. All cases associated with The Oaks were detected in staff members; case investigations determined that these individuals were likely exposed through travel and close contacts, not at the facility.

As of today, 87 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths have been associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 83 cases (54 facility residents and 29 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) were associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist all long-term care facilities in Transylvania County with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 350 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 13 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, 87 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 83 cases (54 facility residents and 29 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) are associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 349 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 12 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test).

As of today, 87 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 83 cases (54 facility residents and 29 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) are associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 5 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 346 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 10 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). 

As of today, 87 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 83 cases (54 facility residents and 29 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) are associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 1 additional case of COVID-19 today, for a total of 341 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 12 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). 

As of today, 86 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 82 cases (54 facility residents and 28 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) are associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 3 additional cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional death today, for a total of 340 cases and 9 deaths among county residents. Currently, 11 county residents are in isolation for COVID-19 (within 10 days of symptom onset or 10 days of a positive test). 

As of today, 86 cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. Of these, 82 cases (54 facility residents and 28 staff) and 6 deaths are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard; 4 cases (all staff) are associated with The Oaks. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

North Carolina will take another step forward and move into Phase 3 starting at 5 pm on Friday, October 3 through Friday, October 23.

Large outdoor venues that seat more than 10,000 people may open at 7% occupancy. Smaller outdoor venues may open at 30% of capacity or a maximum of 100 people, whichever is less. Movie theaters and conference centers may open at 30% of capacity or a maximum of 100 seated guests, whichever is less. Bars may operate outdoors only at 30% capacity or 100 people, whichever is less. Outdoor amusement parks may open at 30% capacity.

Mass gathering limits remain at 25 indoors and 50 outdoors, face coverings continue to be required for everyone age 5 and older, and the alcohol sales curfew of 11pm will remain in effect. People at higher risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19 are still safer at home and should carefully consider what activities they choose to participate in.

More guidance is available at: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance#phase-3-easing-of-restrictions.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 8 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 270 cases and 2 deaths among county residents. Of today’s new cases, 2 are associated with the outbreak at Accordius Health.

A total of 63 cases are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. As of today, 60 cases are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, including 45 facility residents and 15 staff, and 3 cases are associated with The Oaks, all of which are staff. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.

Please note: Due to delays in rapid test results being reported into the state system, there may be a discrepancy between county data and data shown on the NCDHHS Dashboard. We want to provide the most updated information, and are including these test results in our counts now, although they may not show up on the Dashboard for several more days.

Transylvania Public Health is reporting 15 additional cases of COVID-19 today, for a total of 262 cases and 2 deaths among county residents. Of today’s new cases, 13 are associated with the outbreak at Accordius Health and 1 is associated with The Oaks.

A total of 61 cases are associated with outbreaks at skilled nursing facilities in Transylvania County. As of today, 58 cases are associated with the ongoing outbreak at Accordius Health at Brevard, including 45 facility residents and 13 staff, and 3 cases are associated with The Oaks, all of which are staff. Transylvania Public Health and the Licensed Care Facility Response Team are continuing to assist these facilities with their responses to this outbreak.