Coronavirus updates for April 27: Here’s what to know in North Carolina this week
We’re tracking information about the coronavirus and vaccines in North Carolina. Check back every Thursday for updates.
2,300 new COVID cases reported
At least 2,344 new coronavirus cases were reported in North Carolina last week, down from 2,528 the week before, according to preliminary data from state health officials.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services also reported 233 new weekly COVID-19 hospital patient admissions, a drop from 237 the previous week, according to figures through April 22, the most recent metrics available. The daily average of adult coronavirus patients in intensive care was 36, compared with 35 the week before.
The figures were released Wednesday, April 26, about a month after the state health department announced it was updating its online coronavirus dashboard to include data about the flu and other respiratory illnesses.
Data shows roughly 78% of adults in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and about 74% have finished an initial round of vaccine doses. Of the state’s total population, about 63% finished their initial round and about 68% have received at least one dose. State officials round vaccination metrics to the nearest whole number and update them monthly.
“Out of all people who have finished their initial vaccines in North Carolina, 59% have been vaccinated with at least one booster, and 23% with an updated omicron booster,” the health department wrote on its website. Officials have urged those who are eligible to get boosted, as data shows it offers increased protection against the omicron coronavirus variant.
Some groups eligible for extra COVID shots
Some people ages 65 and older or those with compromised immune systems are now eligible to receive additional COVID-19 vaccine doses.
The latest guidance comes as the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said those older than 6 months who get a shot will receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine that is designed to protect against newer variants.
“These changes are an important step toward the future for COVID-19 vaccines as we shift to regular routines that include the most up-to-date protection against the virus, similar to the annual flu shot,” Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson of the DHHS wrote in a statement. “If you have not had a COVID-19 vaccine since September of 2022, you are most likely due for an updated dose.”
Those interested in finding vaccination sites can search for them at myspot.nc.gov or find their health department’s contact information at ncdhhs.gov/LHD, The Charlotte Observer reported April 24.
Read more updated COVID-19 vaccine information here.
This story was originally published April 27, 2023 at 7:32 AM with the headline "Coronavirus updates for April 27: Here’s what to know in North Carolina this week."
