NC wastewater indicates drop in COVID-19 prevalence, fewer hospitalizations

The state released COVID-19 data on Wednesday, with all metrics down from the week earlier.

Virus particles found found in wastewater are down 41% in a week, data from the state Department of Health and Human Services shows, and the number of cases reported to the state is down 33%.

Fewer people are being hospitalized with COVID as well.

Infections have been on the rise in recent weeks. Last week, data revealed 68% more virus particles in wastewater, the highest prevalence since Jan. 19, 2022.

COVID-19 cases reported to the state are down, largely driven by more people taking at-home tests instead of visiting testing sites. That's why the state data is based on wastewater testing.

According to the state, "COVID-19 virus particles appearing in wastewater can signal how quickly the virus is spreading, even if people don't get tested or have symptoms."

Currently 52 counties in North Carolina are at a high risk of illness and putting a strain on local healthcare systems. That includes Durham, Cumberland and Johnston counties. Wake and Chatham counties are at a medium risk.