Bulletin #17 
March 26, 2020
1:00 p.m.

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our country and in the state of North Carolina continues to grow. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services currently is reporting 636 cases in 57 counties, with one fatality. Yesterday, Dare County announced the first positive test result in Dare County. Public Health staff has worked with the individual to identify and notify any close contacts. All identified close contacts have been notified. 

The Dare County Control Group continues to meet daily to receive updated information, discuss and closely monitor the spread of the disease. This includes discussion and planning for coordinated efforts with state and federal partners, including NC Emergency Management, NC DHHS and the Governor’s Office, to ensure Dare County is as prepared as possible to protect the safety, welfare and health of our community. 

With each new day it becomes clear that this is a long term response to a worldwide public health emergency. The continued guidance of staying at home as much as possible, limiting direct contact, other than to family members, and maintaining social distancing are the most effective measures to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

These unprecedented times create stress, anxiety, fear, frustration, and financial hardship for many. A list of community resources is available for those impacted by COVID-19 at darenc.com/covidresources. The list includes information on assistance programs from utility providers, small business loans, food resources and hotlines for seniors feeling isolated and lonely. Frequently asked questions are being updated regularly at darenc.com/covidfaq

Dare County
The Dare County COVID-19 Call Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to help address your questions on testing, travel restrictions, and symptoms, and can be reached at 252.475.5008. 

For updated information regarding Dare County services and department operations, visit www.darenc.com/covidservices.

The Outer Banks Hospital
It is important that we re-emphasize the importance of following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for COVID-19 testing. Per this guidance, testing is only done if you have fever or lower respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath) and close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case within the past 14 days; OR have fever and lower respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath) and a negative rapid flu test. Testing is not recommended for those at home with mild cold-like symptoms.  Practicing social distancing and staying home when you are sick will help us slow the spread of the virus.

Town of Duck
The April 1 Town Council meeting will be live streamed. Instructions for submitting public comment and viewing the live stream will be included in the agenda release on Friday, March 27.

The Planning Board meeting scheduled for April 8 has been canceled.

Bulletin #16
March 25, 2020
3:00 p.m.

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our country and in the state of North Carolina continues to grow.  The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services currently is reporting there are 504 cases in 53 counties. North Carolina has announced the first death from COVID-19. The individual had been receiving hospital-based care in Cabarrus County. 

Earlier today, the County’s Division of Public Health announced the first positive test result for COVID-19 in Dare County. The individual has been self-isolating since originally being tested in Dare County and is reported to be doing well. No additional details will be released about the individual to protect patient privacy. Dare County Department of Health & Human Services staff is actively investigating this individual’s activity and anyone who is determined to have been in direct contact with the individual will be notified by public health staff. 

The public will continue to be notified of any additional individuals who test positive for COVID-19 in Dare County as soon as possible.

To protect yourself and your family, remain vigilant and continue to follow recommendations from the CDC and NCDHHS. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Stay home and eliminate nonessential travel. If you must go out, practice social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet away from others. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face. Stay home if you are feeling ill or experiencing any symptoms. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces as much as possible.

Dare County remains under a State of Emergency. Restrictions remain in place prohibiting access to Dare County for visitors and non-resident property owners. The Dare County Control Group continues to meet daily to receive updates and make any decisions necessary to protect the public health and safety of our citizens. 

Dare County
Dare County is regularly updating a webpage with frequently asked questions about COVID-19.  A community resources webpage is also available for those impacted by COVID-19.

The Dare County COVID-19 Call Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to help address your questions on testing, travel restrictions, and symptoms, and  can be reached at 252.475.5008.