Gov. Cooper encourages faith leaders to help strengthen community vaccination efforts

RALEIGH, N.C. (FOX 46 CHARLOTTE) – Governor Roy Cooper and state health leaders provided an update on the COVID-19 response Tuesday afternoon as new cases and hospitalizations showed signs of improvement.

90% of people ages 65 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose in the state.

According to data released Monday from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the state saw the smallest one-day total of new coronavirus cases in more than a month.

Governor Cooper and State Health Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen urged faith leaders to help strengthen vaccination efforts.

“We remain laser-focused on helping more North Carolinians make the decision to get vaccinated,” Governor Cooper said. “Sec. Cohen and I are sharing a letter to faith leaders asking them to encourage their congregations to get vaccinated and to help combat misinformation about vaccines and treatment.”

4,381 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours and Monday saw the lowest number in more than a month. The death toll reached 15,776 statewide.

Hospitalizations rose slightly with 3,464 current patients Tuesday. 3,323 patients were reported Monday, a drop of 99 from Sunday, and the second straight day it declined by at least 90.

52% of the state’s population has been fully vaccinated.

Cooper also addressed school boards and an optional mask mandate.

“Many are concerned about the fevered pitch that many school board meetings have reached in recent weeks. I am, too. Threats, bullying, intimidation. None of this belongs in our public schools, particularly by adults. Remember – our children are watching,” Cooper said.