Dare County’s mass COVID-19 testing yields 169 negative results; two invalid

Courtesy Community Health Inc.

A total of 178 individuals were tested for COVID-19 on Tuesday, May 26, during a drive-through testing event at First Flight High School.

As of 4:15 p.m. today, Dare County Health and Human Services reports they have received results back on 171 of the specimens. Of the 171 specimens, 169 were negative and two were deemed invalid. The invalid specimens were determined to be inadequate for testing and those individuals have been contacted to be retested. The health department expects to receive the results for the seven outstanding tests later today or tomorrow.

COVID-19 Drive-thru Testing Event Now Includes Residents of Hyde County

A total of 363 appointments are still available for the drive-thru testing event on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at Soundside Event Site in Nags Head. Given the large number of appointment availability, the drive-thru testing event is now being offered for permanent residents of Dare and Hyde Counties, ages 10 and older. To schedule an appointment, please call 252.475.5008. 

Just Because You CAN Doesn’t Mean You SHOULD

As we move into the weekend, please make good choices.  The spread of COVID-19 in the weeks ahead is going to be heavily determined by social behaviors and choice. Please understand that your choices can impact others. Individuals who are at high risk for serious illness, should continue to stay at home and only travel for essential purposes. Mass gatherings are limited to 10 individuals indoors and 25 outdoors. Maintain social distancing by staying at least 6 feet away from individuals who are not members of your household. 

Continue to Practice The Three W’s

If you leave home, practice your Ws: Wear, Wait, Wash  

  • Wear a cloth face covering if you will be with other people. 
  • Wait 6 feet apart. Avoid close contact.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. 

COVID-19 Numbers Update

In North Carolina, there are currently 26,488 cases of COVID-19 in 100 counties. There have been 859 fatalities in NC associated with COVID-19. Currently, the state is reporting 680  hospitalizations across the state from COVID-19 illness. 

The number of positive COVID-19 tests in Dare County has remained at 22 since May 14. Of those 22 Dare County cases, 19 have recovered or are asymptomatically cleared, 1 died and 2 are active. Of the 2 active, 1 is hospitalized and 1 is recovering in home isolation. For the most up to date information on COVID-19 cases in Dare County and the State of North Carolina, visit  darenc.com/covid19.

Just because we have not had a positive test result since May 14, 2020 does not mean that COVID-19 is not in our area. It simply means that no one has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Please continue to be vigilant and follow the 3Ws to protect yourself, your family and our community.

This story originally appeared on OBXToday.com. Read More local stories here.