Post-Thanksgiving 2024: COVID-19 Cases Rise in WNC

WNC -- December 9, 2024: As families and friends gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving in 2024, Western North Carolina has seen a notable increase in COVID-19 cases.

The rise comes amid a broader trend across the state, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures during the holiday season.

COVID-19 Trends in Western North Carolina

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) reported that COVID-19 virus particles in wastewater have reached their highest levels since January 2023. This marks the fifth consecutive week of increases, coinciding with the post-Thanksgiving period. (NCDHHS Dashboard)

Hospitalizations on the Rise

Hospitalizations in the region have also increased. For the week ending December 30, 923 individuals were hospitalized due to COVID-19—a 30% rise from the previous week. Although these numbers are concerning, they remain lower than the 1,580 hospitalizations recorded during the same period in 2022. (ABC 11 News)

Other Respiratory Illnesses Add to the Burden

In addition to COVID-19, cases of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have been rising, further straining healthcare systems in the region. Experts, including Dr. David Weber from UNC Hospitals, have highlighted the importance of vaccinations and other preventive measures to curb the spread of these illnesses. (ABC 11 News)

To combat the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, NCDHHS recommends the following actions:

Stay home when sick until fever-free for at least 24 hours.
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of it promptly.
For those seeking vaccinations, updated COVID-19 vaccines have been available since September 2024. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness and hospitalization. (NCDHHS Vaccination Information)

Free COVID-19 Testing Resumes

The federal government has resumed its program offering free at-home COVID-19 tests. Residents can order four free tests per household at  COVIDTests.gov Local health departments also provide free COVID-19 testing at over 200 locations statewide.

Staying Informed

Residents in Western North Carolina are encouraged to consult the NCDHHS Respiratory Virus Surveillianc Dashboard for up-to-date information on COVID-19, flu, and RSV trends.

As the holiday season continues, it’s vital for the community to stay proactive in safeguarding their health and the well-being of others. By following these guidelines and staying informed, residents can help reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses in the region.

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