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North Carolina’s Key COVID-19 Indicators Remain Stable

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-Press Release, Office of Governor Roy Cooper

Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen today shared an update on North Carolina’s key COVID-19 indicators. The data and trends show that North Carolina remains stable nearly one week into Phase 1.

“Our COVID-19 decisions are guided by the data and the science,” said Cooper. “We will use the time in this phase to keep a careful eye on the data and the indicators before we are ready to announce the start of Phase 2. North Carolinians should continue to stay home if they can and take precautions to keep themselves safe.”

“Continued stability in these trends is a real positive for our state. While we remain on a good path for the 14-day trends we need to see to move to Phase 2, our progress as a state is still dependent on our individual actions,” said Dr. Cohen. “We need to continue to protect our loved ones and our neighbors. If you leave home, practice three Ws – wear, wait and wash.”

Governor Cooper and Secretary Cohen also announced that DHHS now has a list of testing locations on the DHHS website.

The list includes more than 200 sample collection sites in 54 counties, with more being added as they are verified. The list is comprised of health care providers, pharmacies and retail locations, local health departments and others that are providing testing for COVID-19. Some of the sites that are federally funded do not cost anything for the individual being tested. Doctors and clinicians may also provide testing at their offices.

Based on the metrics laid out last month by Governor Cooper and Secretary Cohen, officials need to continue watching the trends before announcing a shift into Phase 2.

Secretary Cohen reported North Carolina remains stable on the following key metrics:

Trajectory in COVID-Like Illness (CLI) Surveillance Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s syndromic surveillance trend for COVID-like illness is decreasing.

Trajectory of Lab-Confirmed Cases Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory of lab-confirmed cases is slightly increasing.

Trajectory in Percent of Tests Returning Positive Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory in percent of tests returning positive has been decreasing and is starting to level.

Trajectory in Hospitalizations Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory of hospitalizations is level.

In addition to these metrics, the state continues building capacity to be able to adequately respond to an increase in virus spread. These areas include:

Laboratory Testing

  • North Carolina has doubled the daily testing rate from approximately 2,500-3,000 to more than 6,000

Tracing Capability

  • The Carolina Community Tracing Collaborative has already hired close to 100 new contact tracers adding to the 250 already working at our local health departments.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Supply chains continue to improve with the exception of gowns.

The Phase 1 executive Order remains in effect until 5 p.m. on Friday, May 22.

However, the end of this Order does not necessarily mean the state will move to Phase 2. Phase 2 will only start if data and indicators remain stable.

Read a copy of today’s graphs and slides.

Maria Parham Health Celebrating National Hospital Week May 10-15

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-Press Release, Maria Parham Health

Maria Parham Health (MPH) is proud to join the American Hospital Association and healthcare organizations around the country in celebrating National Hospital Week, which is observed May 10-15.

Each May, National Hospital Week provides an opportunity to pause and honor the millions of healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to taking care of people in their greatest times of need and to recognize the positive difference hospitals and healthcare organizations make in the communities they serve.

“As our community continues the fight against COVID-19, the pivotal role our healthcare workers play in the well-being of society is clearer than ever,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “Their tireless efforts on the front lines of this disease and their commitment to quality care and patient safety year-round are critical to our mission of Making Communities Healthier. We proudly honor these heroes during National Hospital Week and commend their inspiring efforts to serve others.”

Maria Parham Health in Henderson and Maria Parham Franklin will be marking the national observance with special gifts and prizes for all staff. Community members are encouraged to leave a special note of thanks for hospital employees at www.thankahealthcarehero.com.

As one of the region’s economic leaders, the organization employs approximately 800 staff and contributed more than $8 million in taxes to the local and state economies last year. Additionally, it is proud to sponsor a number of local community organizations and non-profits.

Ensuring that everyone has access to the high-quality and compassionate care they need is a top priority for the organization and fundamental to its mission. In 2019 alone, Maria Parham Health provided more than $62 million of charity and other uncompensated care, regardless of patients’ ability to pay.

“We are privileged to have a significant impact on its health and economic well-being,” said James Johnson, chair of MPH’s board of trustees. “As we celebrate National Hospital Week amid unprecedented challenges this year and begin to look to the future, we are aware that healthcare – like other aspects of life – might look a little different. What will not change, though, is our mission and our commitment to this community. We will continue to put the health and well-being of our neighbors first, ensuring safe places of care and a healthier community for us all.”

Franklin Co. Sheriff’s Office Arrests Warren Co. Man on Felony Drug Charges

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-Information courtesy Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

On May 6, 2020, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group arrested Warren County resident Tyrone Neal on three felony drug charges.

The arrest came as a result of a vehicle stop in the White Level area of Franklin County. The Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group was conducting enforcement patrol after receiving complaints and information regarding drug activity occurring throughout that area of the county.

On May 6, 2020, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group arrested Warren County resident Tyrone Neal on three felony drug charges. (FCSO photo)

Mr. Neal’s vehicle was stopped and, as a result, approximately 58 grams of Powder and Crack Cocaine, as well as US Currency, were seized. The street value of the drugs seized is estimated to be $5,800.

Sheriff Kent Winstead stated, “Our Special Operations Group continues to be responsive to information provided by the citizens of our county. This type of information allows our enforcement to be strategic and raises the chances we can be successful in removing these dangerous drugs from our neighborhoods.”

Tyrone Neal was placed in the Franklin County Detention Facility under a $65,000 secured bond.

Tyrone Neal (48)
213 Neal Ln.
Warrenton, NC 27589

Charges include:
Trafficking in Cocaine (2 counts)
Maintain a Vehicle for the Purpose of Selling Controlled Substances

For more information concerning this investigation or to report drug activity in your neighborhood, please contact Sgt. Ken Pike at (919) 496-2186.

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Franklin Co. Sees Largest Single-Day Community Coronavirus Case Increase

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-Information courtesy Franklin County Government

On Monday, May 11, 2020, the Franklin County Health Department received notice of seven (7) new coronavirus cases within the community. As of the date and time of this press release, this is the largest single–day increase in coronavirus cases for Franklin County since the onset of the pandemic within Franklin County on March 20, 2020, when the county reported four (4) initial cases.

While the county has had larger increases in total cases reported during the pandemic, these prior larger numbers were associated with facility outbreaks. The current seven (7) cases are NOT associated with any facility outbreak and are not linked together. This is a stark reminder that even though North Carolina has entered into “Phase 1” of re–opening, we must remain vigilant in our adherence to personal protective behaviors.

As North Carolina seems poised to enter Phase 2 of our state‘s phased re–opening on Friday, May 22, 2020, the Franklin County Health Department urges everyone to remember the virus has NOT left Franklin County, and there is still no vaccine.

“Flattening the Curve” simply means there is room for you in the hospital if you get very sick with the virus. The best way to ensure you and/or your loved–ones remain virus-free is to strictly adhere to: 

  • Wearing a face covering (i.e. surgical or cloth mask) when out in public.
  • Limiting your time out in public to only when absolutely necessary.
  • Maintaining six feet of physical distance between yourself and anyone who doesn‘t live with you, washing/sanitizing your hands frequently and not touching your face.

Look for more updates on this outbreak from the Franklin County COVID–19 EOC as more information becomes available.

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National Drinking Water Week: Franklin Co. Assures Residents Water is Safe

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-Press Release, Franklin County Government

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assured consumers that drinking water was safe to use as normal. The consistent and reliable quality of drinking water is at the heart of the theme for this year’s Drinking Water Week, “There When You Need It” which is being held May 3-9 this year.

Franklin County Public Utilities and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) will observe Drinking Water Week by recognizing the vital role tap water plays in daily life, the infrastructure that is required to carry it to and from homes and businesses, and the important work of water professionals “behind the scenes.”

Many communities, including Franklin County, are fortunate to have reliable access to safe water when they turn on the tap. In large part, this stems from the regular testing Franklin County Public Utilities are subject to in order to ensure that regulatory standards for water quality are met. In fact, every water system must publish a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), which details its water quality. The CCR will be available in June 2020 for the calendar year 2019.

“Shortly after the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus a pandemic, the EPA and CDC each reminded us that we should trust our tap water as we normally would for hygiene and hydration,” said AWWA CEO David LaFrance. “This proved to be extremely important because handwashing is an important way to stop the spread of the virus. We couldn’t do that without high-quality drinking water.”

To commemorate the week, water utilities, water organizations, government entities, environmental advocates, schools and other stakeholders throughout North America and beyond will encourage consumers to understand and appreciate their drinking water.

For more than 40 years, AWWA and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week, a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together in recognizing the vital role water plays in daily lives.

Are You Ready? May 3-9 Hurricane Preparedness Week 2020

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-Information courtesy Granville County Government

This week is Hurricane Preparedness Week! Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, but most storms hit from mid-August to mid-October.

All residents are encouraged to take this time to update emergency supply kits with enough non-perishable food and water to last each person in your family a minimum of one week. Kits should also include:

• First-aid kit
• Weather radio and batteries
• Prescription medicines
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Changes of clothes
• Hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and deodorant
• Cash
• Pet supplies including food, water, bedding, leashes, muzzle and vaccination records.

If you live in a storm surge hurricane evacuation zone or if you’re in a home that would be unsafe during a hurricane, figure out where you’d go and how you’d get there if told to evacuate.

“Know Your Zone” is a cooperative effort of North Carolina Emergency Management and county emergency management partners and is a tiered evacuation system that highlights areas most vulnerable to impacts from hurricanes, tropical storms and other hazards.

After being piloted during the 2019 hurricane season, state and county emergency management will partner to officially launch the Know Your Zone initiative prior to the peak of the 2020 season. In preparation for the launch and the coming hurricane season, visit http://knowyourzone.nc.gov for an interactive lookup tool, FAQ, and other educational resources.

More information on severe weather and hurricane preparedness is located at www.ReadyNC.org.

State Will Not Provide COVID-19 Testing Directly to Prison, Parole Employees

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-Press Release, NC Department of State Treasurer

State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell, CPA, and the State Health Plan (Plan) announced that they are no longer seeking a direct testing solution with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS) regarding testing of corrections officers and other employees at the state’s correctional institutions over the next few weeks.

Announced on April 22, the Plan had sought to provide direct testing at DPS facilities after Treasurer Folwell had secured more than 20,000 COVID-19 tests. However, logistical and personnel concerns from DPS will prevent direct testing. Therefore, Treasurer Folwell has told Mako Medical, and any other test providers that were going to provide tests, they can release the tests designated to support the program.

“We’re disappointed that we could not work out the details on how to go directly to the facilities outside of the fence to test,” said Treasurer Folwell. “However, we fully understand the dilemma of the Division of Adult Correction and Juvenile Justice.”

The vast majority of DPS employees are members of the Plan. Last month, the Plan announced that it is waiving the cost of treatment for members diagnosed with COVID-19, including associated deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. The Plan previously announced that it was also covering the cost associated with the testing of COVID-19.

The member cost-share waiver for COVID-19 related treatments is effective immediately through June 1, 2020, at which time the Plan will continue to re-evaluate this and other measures. The Plan is taking this action to help ensure that members receive the COVID-19 testing and treatment they need when they need it.

“Unlike other state agencies, DPS has unique safety and operational hurdles that could not be overcome by the State Health Plan’s desire to directly test these state employees,” added Treasurer Folwell. “We know that the leadership at ACJJ wants to act as quickly as possible and their concern for the welfare of their employees is tantamount. In fact, ACJJ has recently procured, paid for and administered tests at one of its 54 facilities.”

State Health Plan Executive Director Dee Jones added that the Plan is ready to assist when a viable testing method that meets DPS’s requirements is available. However, she highly encouraged any State Health Plan member who is exhibiting symptoms to see their Primary Care Physician.

The State Health Plan, a division of the Department of State Treasurer, provides health care coverage to more than 727,000 teachers, state employees, retirees, current and former lawmakers, state university and community college personnel, and their dependents.

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Maria Parham Health to Resume Elective, Non-Urgent Surgeries & Procedures

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-Press Release, Maria Parham Health

Maria Parham Health announced today that it is taking the appropriate steps to safely resume some elective and non-urgent surgeries and procedures that were previously rescheduled out of an abundance of caution amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The decision to reschedule procedures when clinically appropriate was made in accordance with federal and state guidance and aimed to help preserve critical resources in the event of a surge of COVID-19 patients in the community.

Today, current projections indicate a lower than expected volume of COVID-19 in the region, which means less strain on healthcare resources.

“Resuming these important services is an essential component of meeting our community’s health needs and advancing our mission of Making Communities Healthier,” said Bert Beard, Chief Executive Officer of Maria Parham Health. “As this work gradually gets underway in our hospital again, we remain committed to conserving critical supplies, being vigilant in our fight against COVID-19, and ensuring that our facility is a safe place for all patients, providers and employees.”

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Maria Parham Health has continued to carefully follow guidance from federal, state and local officials, monitor the prevalence of the virus in the community, and evaluate supplies and resources – including personal protective equipment like masks, gowns, gloves and goggles.

The decisions about which procedures can safely move forward will be made only after assessing a comprehensive pre-operative checklist and evaluating potential risks. The hospital will initially focus on scheduling patients with more time-sensitive health needs, and those decisions will be made in partnership with the attending physician/surgeon/proceduralist. Patients who are scheduled and approved for procedures must meet specific requirements, including passing standard COVID-19 screenings.

Surgical patients also will be asked to practice “safer at home” behaviors for seven days prior to their procedure to minimize potential exposure; check their temperature twice a day during this 7-day period and report temperatures over 100°F to their provider; and undergo testing for COVID-19.

Patients awaiting information about their previously postponed procedure can expect to hear from their provider or provider’s office to discuss rescheduling at the appropriate time.

Maria Parham Health will continue to screen and mask everyone who enters the facility and maintain a zero-visitor protocol for the foreseeable future. These important measures have had a positive impact on ensuring a safe environment, and they also are aligned with the federal government’s guidelines.

Additionally, the facility has implemented new processes and procedures to further protect the health of patients, providers and employees. Visit mariaparham.com to learn more.

As a reminder, if you are having a medical emergency, you should call 911 or go directly to the Emergency Room. If possible, tell the dispatch agent if your emergency involves symptoms possibly related to COVID-19.

Aviation Businesses Expanding at Triangle North Executive Airport

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-Press Release, Franklin County Government

Franklin County welcomes the expansion of Total Flight Solutions (TFS) and Triangle Avionics (TA) at Triangle North Executive Airport (TNEA). Both businesses are a huge asset for our aviation community that service both existing airfield tenants as well as numerous outside clients.

Total Flight Solutions, established at TNEA in 2011, has expanded its capacity with the purchase of an existing 27,132 square foot hangar at the airport that will be their base for aviation frame and powerplant mechanical operations for the future. The land lease was executed for their operations until 2059.

“The expansion of Total Flight Solutions at Triangle North Executive Airport has allowed me to expand our workforce by four employees and aviation service offering to both the flight school operation as well as maintenance and repair,” states Al Mattress, Owner of Total Flight Solutions. “TNEA brings about an environment that makes us competitive in the marketplace to grow the aviation careers of pilots, bring service and maintenance to the airfield and beyond as well as address our capacity needs for future growth.”

A top tier Flight School and air operation provider in North Carolina, Total Flight Solutions participates in both the Part 61 and newly acquired Part 141 programs. The Part 141 program allows for airplane private pilot training at Triangle North Executive Airport. In the near future, TFS also plans to accept VA benefits followed by visas for international flight training students. Total Flight Solution also leases out 60,000 square feet of hangar storage space as well as office space for its Flight School.

“The success of Total Flight Solutions is a testament to the quality of service they provide to clients and tenants to the airfield,” stated Bo Carson, Airport Manager. “I am thrilled they chose to expand at TNEA and plan to continue their growth here both in flight school operations and aviation mechanics in the future.”

Triangle Avionics has also recently expanded its operation into a 60,000 square foot hangar located at Triangle North Executive Airport. This will complement their office and lab space on the airfield that services airfield tenants as well as outside clients. “Triangle Avionics is thrilled to be a part of the TNEA business and aviation community,” states Cliff Herndon, Owner of Triangle Avionics. “We have quickly grown to four employees and are dealers for the leading manufactures of avionics equipment. Our vision for growing capabilities and capacity are lockstep with Franklin County’s plans for the airport, making TNEA an ideal place to call home.”

“Triangle North Executive Airport is excited that Triangle Avionics is expanding its operation by the establishment of a new FAA repair avionics service station on the airfield, “stated Carson. “Having a repair avionics service station on our airfield is a gamechanger and adds to our diversity of aviation businesses that call us home.”

Triangle Avionics currently services avionic systems that include Aircraft Spruce, Aspen, BendixKing, Garmin, Genesys Aerosystems, MidContinent Instrument+Avioncs, Stratus and TrueTrak. Triangle Avionics offers the following services and certifications in altimeter and transponders, custom panels and overlays, installations, and troubleshooting and repair.

“Triangle North Executive Airport and Franklin County continue to offer an attractive location for aviation employers to succeed,” stated Sydney Dunston, Chair of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners. “The expansion of these two aviation-related businesses shows that the airport and businesses are thriving at Triangle North Executive Airport.”

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Franklin Co. Reports First Community (Non-Facility Based) COVID-19 Related Death

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-Press Release, Franklin County Government

Sadly, Franklin County has now recorded its first community COVID–19 related death. As of the date and time of this press release, this death is not associated with any congregate care outbreak. 

This brings Franklin County‘s current total number of COVID–19 related fatalities to nineteen (19), and this community loss is reflected in the NCDHHS numbers that were updated on May 1, 2020, which includes the report of 105 total lab–confirmed coronavirus cases in Franklin County. 

Please note that the NCDHHS COVID–19 website now contains maps that show “confirmed–cases by zip codes.” This is a new feature, and only includes results for zip codes where the population exceeds 500 people. Here is the link for this new feature: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public–health/covid19/covid–19–nc–case–count#zip–code–map 

Look for more updates from the Franklin COVID–19 EOC as more information becomes available.