COVID cases on the rise ahead of start of school year

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — COVID-19 cases are on the rise in Eastern North Carolina just ahead of school years getting started.

Professionals at ECU Health said that the percentage of positive tests is at 28.1 percent. A month ago, it was 21.5 percent. With students back to school soon, it’s important to try and slow this spread.

“For kids going back to school, don’t go to school sick. I know that there’s lots of pressures and everybody wants to have their kids go to school,” Infectious Disease Physician at ECU Health Dr. Ryan Gallher said. “I’ve got three kids. I totally get it, but if your kids are sick, talk to your school about their policy. And we also have tests that are available now. So, if you have symptoms, don’t discount that and get an answer.”

He said at ECU Health, the number of patients across the system that have COVID-19 spiked from 32 patients last month to now 79 patients.

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