Governor Cooper Outlines What Needs To Happen to Reopen North Carolina

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Governor Cooper Outlines What Needs To Happen to Reopen North Carolina

Yesterday NC Governor Roy Cooper released new guidelines for how our state will eventually ease COVID-19 restrictions in order to both help our economy and limit a possible second wave of infections.

“This virus is going to be with us until there is a vaccine, which may be a year or more away,” Governor Cooper said. “That means that as we ease restrictions, we are going to enter a new normal. We want to get back to work while at the same time preventing a spike that will overwhelm our hospitals with COVID-19 cases.”

Expert modeling has shown it would be dangerous to lift the restrictions all at once because it would increase the chances that hospitals become overwhelmed and unable to care for severely ill patients. Cooper emphasized that changes in restrictions must protect public health, especially those who are most vulnerable to severe illness, including people over age 65, those with underlying health conditions and people living in congregate settings.

“Experts tell us it would be dangerous to lift our restrictions all at once. Rather than an on/off light switch, we are viewing this as a dimmer switch that can be adjusted incrementally,” said Governor Cooper.

In order to ease restrictions, the state needs to make more progress in three areas: testing, tracing and trends.

TESTING

State planning relies on an increase in testing capabilities to identify, isolate and track new cases of COVID-19. This means having the supplies and lab capacity to do more testing across the state. Dr. Mandy Cohen, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, has brought together laboratory partners from the public and private sector to coordinate efforts to ensure testing – diagnostic and antibody – is widely available across the state while also conserving protective equipment.

TRACING

Tracing requires the state to boost the public health workforce and ability to trace contacts of new cases of COVID-19. Contact tracing can be effective at containing new outbreaks, but it requires more personnel. When a person tests positive, the tracing efforts will help identify who that individual may have been in contact with so those people can get tested and take the right precautions. NC DHHS is working with its partners to increase this critical piece of our public health workforce. New digital tools can also help scale this effort.

TRENDS

In order to ease restrictions, the state needs to understand how COVID-19 is impacting the state and impacting specific populations and regions of the state to determine when to strengthen or ease social distancing policies. Trends that will influence policy decisions will be based on data like the new positive cases, hospitalizations, deaths, as well as available supply of personal protective equipment, hospital capacity.

“Because we acted early and because we acted together, we have averted the devastating scenarios we have seen playing out in other parts of our country and across the globe. We now need to look ahead at how we stay ahead of the curve. Widespread testing, aggressive contact tracing, and data-informed policy decisions are our best tools to keep our communities safe and protect our frontline workers,” said NC Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy Cohen, MD.

Make sure the information you are getting about COVID-19 is coming directly from reliable sources. For more information on public health, please visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NCDHHS’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which includes daily updates on positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.

For more information about economic relief, child care and food services, the state COVID-19 website at www.nc.gov/covid19  includes daily updates on COVID-19 assistance.

Learn more about how testing, tracing and trends will determine when the state loosens restrictions.

North Carolina Has The 3rd Biggest Increase in Unemployment Due to Coronavirus

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North Carolina Has The 3rd Biggest Increase in Unemployment Due to Coronavirus

With the U.S. losing over 22 million jobs since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, WalletHub today released updated rankings for the States with the Biggest Increases in Unemployment Due to Coronavirus.

To identify which states’ workforces have been hurt most by COVID-19, the site compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia based on increases in unemployment claims. We used this data to rank the most impacted states in both the latest week for which we have data (April 6) and overall since the beginning of the coronavirus crisis (March 16).

Increase in North Carolina Unemployment Due to Coronavirus (1=Worst, 25=Avg.):

  • 4,419.46% Increase in Unemployment Claims (April 2020 vs April 2019)
    • 137,934 the week of April 6, 2020 vs 3,052 the week of April 8, 2019
    • 8th highest increase in the U.S.
  • 3,831.98% Increase in the Number of Unemployment Claims (April 2020 vs January 2020)
    • 137,934 the week of April 6, 2020 vs 3,508 the week of January 1, 2020
    • 3rd highest increase in the U.S.
  • 4,605.70% Increase in Unemployment Claims Since Pandemic Started
    • 541,584 between March 16, 2020 and April 6, 2020 vs 11,759 between March 18, 2019 and April 8, 2019
    • 7th highest increase in the U.S.

Detailed Findings

State Increase in Unemployment Claims (2020 vs 2019)* Increase in Unemployment Claims (April vs January 2020)** Increase in Unemployment Claims (April vs Start of COVID-19 Crisis)***
Louisiana 4141.92% 4727.80% 5133.33%
Colorado 5058.22% 4222.21% 3341.62%
North Carolina 4419.46% 3831.98% 4605.70%
Florida 2757.26% 3825.79% 2794.29%
Mississippi 4123.24% 3818.51% 3384.17%
New Hampshire 4876.30% 3368.99% 6429.42%
Virginia 4554.30% 3247.65% 4706.10%
Arizona 1572.09% 3022.09% 1934.07%
Indiana 4886.67% 2565.40% 4670.06%
Nevada 2640.44% 2558.13% 3645.04%
New Mexico 2291.90% 2339.80% 2728.03%
Tennessee 3355.27% 2324.51% 2801.61%
Kentucky 5391.60% 2136.97% 4391.14%
Texas 1872.65% 2112.07% 1901.15%
District of Columbia 2263.72% 1959.04% 3419.32%
Alabama 3725.24% 1805.82% 2973.66%
Hawaii 2975.62% 1800.99% 3078.33%
Georgia 5950.42% 1761.23% 4679.15%
California 1576.34% 1700.02% 1833.86%
Oklahoma 2585.14% 1564.19% 2514.47%
Michigan 3831.17% 1560.63% 4753.10%
Utah 1672.07% 1492.29% 2560.30%
South Dakota 7495.06% 1445.73% 4200.74%
Maryland 2087.88% 1427.45% 2822.13%
Kansas 2270.49% 1423.97% 2916.69%
Delaware 2653.53% 1416.80% 3377.03%
Washington 2069.13% 1401.56% 2631.47%
Nebraska 2795.94% 1391.45% 3291.60%
Ohio 2903.21% 1361.27% 3645.86%
Vermont 1257.88% 1293.82% 2099.81%
Arkansas 2286.97% 1244.53% 1862.06%
Alaska 1185.48% 1199.90% 1352.57%
Missouri 3291.82% 1181.58% 2784.75%
North Dakota 3715.44% 1141.39% 4209.89%
Minnesota 3096.65% 1129.04% 3447.46%
Illinois 1725.17% 1097.46% 1879.42%
South Carolina 4202.55% 1073.68% 3545.27%
Rhode Island 2936.62% 1056.44% 4025.80%
Massachusetts 2207.73% 988.76% 3413.59%
Iowa 2424.84% 910.82% 2670.12%
West Virginia 1423.49% 833.18% 1559.64%
New Jersey 1740.07% 817.46% 2279.09%
New York 3163.94% 782.91% 2353.89%
Pennsylvania 1973.57% 773.17% 2882.22%
Montana 1548.71% 764.12% 2372.42%
Maine 1766.81% 698.14% 3327.58%
Oregon 1070.27% 658.56% 1135.74%
Wyoming 721.44% 640.79% 1444.62%
Idaho 1779.43% 502.54% 2289.62%
Wisconsin 1391.97% 443.68% 1591.15%
Connecticut 883.27% 332.53% 1218.54%

Charlotte Start-Up PHOOZY Donates Over $25,000 In Protective Gear to Healthcare Workers

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Charlotte Start-Up PHOOZY Donates Over $25,000 In Protective Gear to Healthcare Workers

Charlotte, NC start-up, PHOOZY, maker of protective capsules for phones, tablets, laptops and accessories, is donating more than $25,000 in products to healthcare workers and first responders across the nation, including First Responders 1st and What if Everyone, part of Mosaic Church, both based in Charlotte. The capsules will offer healthcare workers and first responders protection for their devices by reducing exposure and keeping them cleaner and safer in the environments where they work.

“I am grateful to PHOOZY for helping our first responders on the frontlines that are fighting this frightening pandemic.” commented Lonnie Clouse, Executive Director, First Responders 1st, “This capsule will help first responders give the best of themselves to their community knowing that their personal devices are protected during this difficult time.”

Additionally, PHOOZY has launched a new giveback program for health care workers and first responders. For every purchase on PHOOZY.com, the company will donate an Apollo Series Thermal Capsule to doctors, nurses and other hospital staffers, as well as police, fire and medic teams in communities across the nation. PHOOZY is providing a sitewide discount of 20% during this program.

“We are honored to be able to step in and help during this Coronavirus pandemic,” said Charlotte native, Co-Founder and CEO of PHOOZY, Kevin Conway. “Over the past week we’ve received several inquiries from workers looking to keep their devices clean and protected during this critical time. We are happy to support  those serving on the front lines of this pandemic.”

The donation to the organizations in Charlotte, where PHOOZY is based, is part of a larger donation the brand is making nationally to healthcare workers and first responders. PHOOZY is looking to outfit even more facilities with their phone capsules and is inviting members of the public to fill out this form to recommend a facility in need.

“The brave men and women on the front lines of this pandemic have our deepest respect,” commented Conway. “We are humbled to be able to offer support and provide whatever we can to help during this unprecedented time.”

To learn more, go to PHOOZY.com/GiveBack

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Budget

Rico Mckinney
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5 Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Budget

Irrespective of how much you earn or save, you need to budget your finances. A well-laid budget not only helps you to stretch your existing money but also gives you limits for spending your money. You can plan for the future and make better choices if you know how to budget. 

With this plan, you always spend with purpose and buy financial freedom for your future. But, sometimes, you may make budgeting mistakes that hinder your goals. Here, they are explained with solutions. 

  1. You Have a Rigid Budget

There’s no need to set your budget in stone at the start of the month. It will make you work around this plan even if it twists your decisions into tight knots. Life can’t be predictable like that. There may be changes that need immediate actions without sticking to a rigid budget. 

Hence, be flexible and realistic when making your financial plans. Remember, some months will be different when you need more money to splurge on holidays or birthdays. Adjust your budget every month and make a savings fund to stash extra cash as you save it. 

  1. Depending on Predictable Income

Like your expenses, the incomes may also differ sometimes. If you make a budget based on anticipated income, it might turn around on you when unexpected events come up. A budget that relies on a hopeful forecast of money to be earned is set to falter. 

So, brace yourself and make necessary cuts in your budget as you go. If income is tight in a month, you can cancel a few expenses and look for more discounts on your groceries. 

  1. Not Paying Off Your Debts

Sometimes, you may not realize, but your debts may eat into your monthly budgets. If you owe something, pay it before any other expense. Make your budget adaptive to include debt payments at regular intervals. 

If you want to get free of your debts quickly, choose a proper method to settle them. Take help from credit counselors or experts to find the right debt management plan for your finances. 

  1. Not Tracking Your Progress

Irrespective of your budgetary patterns and habits, it is essential to track your progress every month to accommodate significant life changes. For example, if you get married, you have to refresh your budget to keep your future in view. 

Apart from knowing how to budget, keep a close eye on every item that features on this plan.

  1. Not Having a Buffer in the Budget

Every month, set aside a certain amount of money to create a buffer for unexpected or unforeseen incidents. If something happens suddenly, you can cover it up with this extra amount. Also, try to ditch your credit cards as much as you can. 

Instead of using credit cards adding to your debts, use your debit cards or cash to make payments. That way, you will pay the money directly from your bank account without any third-party charging you high interest for using their services.

These are some mistakes to avoid when making your monthly budget for financial stability and freedom.

An Overview of Stremio and troubleshooting Tips for Hassle-Free Media Streaming

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An Overview of Stremio and troubleshooting Tips for Hassle-Free Media Streaming

Stremio is a stunning media player app when it comes to viewing videos that are on-demand. With it, you can watch TV shows, streaming content, live sports and all the movies you like. Like the Kodi media player app, Stremio also uses multiple addons that you can install and get instant access to movies and TV shows from across the globe. With this app, you can effectively search, organize, and watch videos from all sources on your smart devices.  

Stremio gives you a single click solution as all your favorite videos can be instantly streamed without hassles. There is a global library filled with trending movies, videos, and TV shows with lots more on this app.  

The Stremio addons you choose add to your viewing experience, and they are legal. Stremio uses content taken from torrent websites, and this is why you can find most media content with it. 

This media player is a complex app, and often there are some issues that might arise. The developers of this entertainment app try to keep it as stable and smooth as possible. However, the software is complex, and with the addition of third-party parties, some issues might take place.

Vast popularity over the last few years

Over the last few years, Stremio has gained immense popularity due to its simple interface. Even if you are new to it, you will not face any kind of problems as the interface blends into media streaming naturally. This interface permits you to view web series, movies, live TV shows, YouTube content, and more. The addons that you choose connect you to media servers across the globe, and this helps you to keep streaming links to select what you wish to watch. These Stremio add-ons can be easily downloaded and installed on the Internet so that they never take up space on the local storage of your device. This means you are able to save all the space on your device. You should ensure that the addon is installed on the device and is compatible with Stremio. 

What should you do if your Stremio app has issues? 

Often users might face media streaming issues with their Stremio app, and this is where they need to seek information about the issues that they face. Experts in the field say that the resolution of the above issues depends upon the device that you use, the type of operating system, and the Stremio version along with other factors. Besides the above, the following are some factors that help you to troubleshoot problems with the Stremio app. These are general things you can check into, and in case the issue is not solved, it is prudent to consult an expert to help you. 

Universal troubleshooting actions for the Stremio app

The following are the following factors to check when you are facing problems with your Stremio app-

  1. Antivirus software- There are some antivirus software programs that identify the Stremio app as a software that is dubious. This is why they prevent its smooth functioning. In case, you feel that your app is not functioning properly as per your expectations, you should first disable the antivirus software and relaunch Stremio. In case you face issues, even after this, you can write about this issue to Stremio developers, and they can check out the provider of the antivirus software program to get Stremio whitelisted for it. 
  2. The DNS resolution needs to be set correctly- There might be some restrictions that have been set down by your ISP or Internet service provider, and this often causes hindrances for the accessibility of Stremio. The DNS resolution issue might sound too complicated and technical for you. However, you need to follow a good tutorial from credible sources online that will guide you on how you can change your DNS resolution effectively. 
  3. The VPN you use- There are some ISPs that stop user access to specific websites or other services. In such cases, you must access Stremio with the help of a good quality VPN. In fact, when you are using Stremio, you should always use a good VPN for privacy and security. In case you are already using a good VPN and still cannot Stremio, you should try to disable it and then check whether it is working or not. Make sure when you are using addons, they are taken from credible sources. You should not trust all sources of the Internet, so be careful.
  4. Make sure you update the GPU or Video Card drivers- Ensure you have installed GPU or video card drivers that are up-to-date. They often cause technical issues in the media streaming of the Stremio app. 
  5. Make sure that the OS system you use is updated- This factor is obvious, but still some users do forget about it anyway. If you use an operating system that is outdated, you will find that the Stremio app works poorly. If you are a user of the Windows OS, you should have the latest version of the OS installed in your device. Once you have updated your system, you can relaunch the Stremio app and have a fantastic media streaming experience. 

Coming back to addons for Stremio, Popcorn Time is the best and most popular addon for Stremio. You can view almost everything on Stremio when you install Popcorn Time. However, make sure that you install the best free VPN for popcorn time so that you can effectively secure your online activity and stream media without hassles at all. Popcorn Time also offers you with many documentaries that are popular in the entertainment work along with TV shows and movies. It also permits you to get updated media content from other streaming services from across the globe frequently.

Therefore, when you are using Stremio, keep in mind the above and ensure that you always use a good quality VPN for private and secure viewing. At the same time, choose the best addons for your entertainment purposes from the comforts of any place round-the-clock!

New Report Indicates Black North Carolinians Bearing Disproportionate Level of Coronavirus Effects

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New Report Indicates Black North Carolinians Bearing Disproportionate Level of Coronavirus Effects

A new report released by Piedmont Rising today finds that Black North Carolinians are experiencing the coronavirus pandemic more severely than other groups in terms of the number of deaths and diagnosed cases.

The report found that black residents in our state are at greater risk due to higher rates of chronic illness and less access to health care.

• Black North Carolinians account for 39 percent of confirmed coronavirus patients and 38 percent of deaths from coronavirus, even though only just over 21 percent of state residents are Black.

North Carolina’s Black communities often experience higher rates of certain health issues, especially some that put them at a higher risk of developing serious complications from the coronavirus.

• On average, one-in-four people living in the ten counties in North Carolina with the highest percentage of Black residents report being in poor or fair health. In Wake County, that average is 1 out of 8 residents.

• Black Americans are more likely to have asthma, heart disease, and hypertension, all of which are making them particularly vulnerable to negative outcomes after contracting coronavirus.

In Black communities across North Carolina, people are impacted by much higher rates of diabetes. Diabetes patients are much more likely to experience serious complications from coronavirus.

• Black North Carolinians are significantly more likely to have a diabetes diagnosis at any stage of their lives than any other group in the state. On average, Black American adults are 25% more likely to have diabetes than North Carolinians in general.

• There is a tendency for younger Black Americans to live with diseases that are usually more common in older Americans. For instance, Black Americans ages 35 to 49 are 40 percent more likely to have diabetes than their white counterparts in the same age group.

• Every one of the ten counties in North Carolina with the highest percentage of Black residents has a rate of diabetes diagnoses higher than the state average.

“This report shows how the coronavirus pandemic is only worsening the inequalities people of color face,” said Piedmont Rising Executive Director, Casey Wilkinson. “Black residents, and most likely Latino and Native American residents, are bearing the brunt of this crisis, but we still lack a complete picture because of a lack of transparency in data being reported.”

UNC Charlotte Hosting Virtual ‘Day of Remembrance’ For 1 Year Anniversary Of Tragic Shooting

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UNC Charlotte Hosting Virtual ‘Day of Remembrance’ For 1 Year Anniversary Of Tragic Shooting

On April 30, 2020, at 5:10 p.m., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte will be hosting “United: A Remembrance Program” through a virtual event that pays tribute to Reed Parlier and Riley Howell, and honors Drew, Emily, Rami and Sean, and all the students in the classroom who died during last year’s tragic shooting.

The program will feature Student Body President Chandler Crean and Student Body Vice President Adela Mann, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Kevin Bailey, and a special appearance from CBS News correspondent and alum, Don Dahler ’91. In addition, there will be a showing of an artistic video created by faculty member Jeff Murphy and accompanied by an original composition written by faculty member John Allemeier, as well as musical performances by “Water From Fire” featuring alumni John Woodall ’14 and Kevin Brawley ’13.

“Although I am disappointed that original plans for remembering April 30 cannot be realized, the enduring spirit of Niner Nation is one of resilience; we will get through this time together,” said UNCC Chancellor Philip Dubois. “We hope you will join us on April 30 for this day of remembrance.”

You can view all of the bios and program details on the Niner Nation Remembers website.

What you need to know about a luxury auto equity loan

Robert Tilman
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What you need to know about a luxury auto equity loan

If you’re in a financial problem and don’t qualify for other financings, auto equity loans can be your best option. A luxury auto equity loan allows you to borrow cash against the value of your car regardless of whether you have outright ownership or not. An auto equity loan is pretty similar to a home loan, but you need to use the value of your car as collateral to secure a short-term loan rather than your house. This article explains some of the things that you need to know about a luxury auto equity loan. 

A luxury auto equity loan

There is no doubt that an auto equity loan is appealing, especially if you want fast cash. This is because it’s easier to qualify compared to most traditional loans. Likewise, auto equity loans have lower interest rates and longer repayment terms than most of the other types of loans.

So, what is a luxury auto equity loan? Well, this is a form of secured loan that gives you a chance to borrow cash against the value of your luxury car if you have some equity in it or you own it outright. But the amount of the loan varies depending on various factors related to your car such as it’s market value, the equity you have in it, and your income.

Most lenders require you to fill out an application form and provide details about your car. This includes how much equity you have in your luxury car and its value. Once the application is approved, the lender may deposit the money into your bank account. 

What you need to know about an auto equity loan

A luxury auto equity loan comes in handy when you need money in critical emergencies. While there are various lenders offering auto equity loans, you should always choose the best one that meets your requirements. This is because these loans have different costs like interest costs. Aside from this, some auto equity loans have documentary stamp tax fees and DMV lien fees. These costs might be included as part of your loan, which you need to pay over time.

It’s important to remember that you might be adding more money you already owe if your car is not already paid off. For this reason, you should always make timely payments on your loan so that you don’t owe more on your car. Missing some payments on the loan can affect your financial situation. 

Most of the banks don’t offer luxury auto equity loans but you can get them from online lenders and credit unions. The terms of the loan might depend on your income, your credit history, and the value of your vehicle. Keep in mind that many lenders will usually check the worth of your car and the equity you have before approving your loan. 

Also, the lender might require you to provide proof of income and car insurance. Once this loan application process is done, the lender can approve and transfer the money to your bank account sometimes within a day.

When To Use Analog Marketing In A Digital World

Robin Mann
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When To Use Analog Marketing In A Digital World

Everything is digital these days. Marketing seems to be the most effective when it is done in a digital way from start to finish. The traditional marketing models are dead.

Or are they?

There is no doubt that digital marketing is the best way to build a brand or grow a business. The model is great as it is efficient as it is effective especially with so many people connected to their phones. But there are times when taking marketing back to the old ways does make a lot of sense. There are still some things that can be done offline that pay dividends.

Like most things, it pays to have a well rounded plan that doesn’t rely too much on one way or another.

In this article, I will go over several ways that digital marketing can be more effective with some analog marketing thrown in for good measure.

Swag still works

Everybody loves free stuff. Think about how many times you see somebody wearing a shirt with a corporate logo on it. And I don’t mean brands that make apparel. I mean a local construction company or a software start up.

Any company can benefit from casting a wide net when it comes to branding. And getting things like shirts, personalized pens and other freebies in the hands of people is a great way to do this.

Start out by getting wholesale t-shirts printed with a fun graphic and clear branding and then encourage your workers to wear them and give them to friends and family. 

Direct mail

If I had a dollar for every time somebody says that direct mail is dead, I wouldn’t be writing this article. I would be sipping mojitos on a beach somewhere counting my money.

Direct mail is an incredibly effective marketing tool. Especially nowadays with how much detailed information you can get about your ideal market. 

Just to be clear, we are not talking about the same type of junk mail that clogs people’s mailboxes and gets them annoyed. That’s a sure way to turn people off of your brand and marketing effort. 

Instead, I am talking about mail that is targeted well so people that get it see the value in it immediately and are happy to receive these types of offers. People don’t mind being marketed to when they feel like it benefits them or solves a problem they are having. 

Networking

Networking is as important as ever and should not be ignored. 

Shaking hands and putting a face to a brand is extremely important. People want to connect with businesses that are easy to identify and have a human aspect to it. If your brand is not humaized in any way, then you’re not likely to create many fans of your offerings.

When you network with other people and businesses, you create a symbiotic relationship in which you help others and they help you.

This creates goodwill and puts your brand in the best possible light. Join organizations that sponsor networking events. If you have a product as your business, then do trade shows that put brands and consumers together.

Mecklenburg County Announces New Peak Date For COVID-19 As Total Cases Approach 1,000

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Mecklenburg County Announces New Peak Date For COVID-19 As Total Cases Approach 1,000

There is a new peak date for COVID-19 in Charlotte – June 8th, 2020.

This morning Mecklenburg County Health Director Gibbie Harris announced the new projected peak date and noted that the projected peak would only be achieved if strict social distancing rules and maintained and enforced.

The county’s projection estimates that over 2,000 individuals will have contracted COVID-19 by the end of this month, and by the time the peak arrives, our county will need a total of 574 ventilators (we currently only have 243 ventilators).

The county is now reporting a total of 993 cases with 16 deaths. CMPD is reporting 3 sworn officers and 1 non-sworn officer have been confirmed to have COVID-19.

The county is urging residents to continue to social distance and created the following graphic to drive home the point:

According to the CDC, patients with confirmed CoVID-19 infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:

  • fever
  • cough
  • shortness of breath

CDC believes at this time that symptoms of CoVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 after exposure.

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