LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Reaction to COVID-19 Alert System

Friday, Nov. 20, 2020 -- The important thing to remember is that no matter the color of the county, there are critical actions everyone can take to slow the spread of COVID-19. It starts with everyone wearing a mask whenever leaving home. Everyone has a responsibility each North Carolinian, each business and each public official in every county to take effective action to bring down their numbers so we can protect our state's hospital system, save lives. And it can prevent us from having to take significant steps backward.

Posted 10:00 a.m. Nov 20, 2020 — Updated 10:00 a.m. Nov 20, 2020

To the editor:

Regarding the N.C. COVID-19 Alert System -- We are hearing from county officials (and local media outlets) asking for things like mask ordinance language, holiday guidance and templates to use to help communicate with their businesses, community and faith leaders and directly with the people who live in their counties.

This system will help our counties make decisions about what more can be done to slow the spread of the virus. The system also includes additional recommendations for individuals, businesses, community organizations, and public officials on actions they should take.

The important thing to remember is that no matter the color of the county, there are critical actions everyone can take to slow the spread of COVID-19. It starts with everyone wearing a mask whenever leaving home. Everyone has a responsibility each North Carolinian, each business and each public official in every county to take effective action to bring down their numbers so we can protect our state’s hospital system, save lives. And it can prevent us from having to take significant steps backward.

Resources

North Carolina Introduces COVID-19 County Alert System – News release announcing the release of the county alert system and explaining how it works
COVID-19 County Alert System – The November report, which includes Frequently Asked Questions
Celebrating Safely: Tips for the Holidays – A summary of some of our guidance documents regarding safely celebrating the holiday season
Social Media Toolkit for COVID-19 – Social media resources, including information on Safer Social Gatherings (Thanksgiving, Black Friday, etc)

Chris Mackey, Director of Communications

N.C. Department of Health and Human Services

Suggest A Correction