Dare County COVID-19 update: ‘No way to provide a timeline’ for lifting restrictions

Published 12:18 pm Thursday, March 19, 2020

: This illustration, created at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveals ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses. Note the spikes that adorn the outer surface of the virus, which impart the look of a corona surrounding the virion, when viewed electron microscopically. A novel coronavirus, named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China in 2019. The illness caused by this virus has been named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

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The Dare County Control Group received an update regarding COVID-19 from Health and Human Services Director Sheila Davies Thursday morning, March 19, during which she reported that the number of confirmed cases in North Carolina continues to increase. Currently, there are 97 confirmed cases in North Carolina in 22 counties. Twenty-six of these confirmed cases are affiliated with a group of students from Duke University who traveled internationally. No individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 in Dare County at this time, according to the press release from Dare County.

“The Dare County Control Group will continue to meet daily to receive and evaluate updated information and global research regarding this novel virus to make decisions in the best interest of the health and safety of our community,” stated the March 19 bulletin. “At this time, there is no way to provide a timeline or expected date for lifting the restriction that is in place for visitors. When conditions warrant, revisions to the restrictions on travel to Dare County will be implemented.”

Individuals who are traveling to and from Dare County for medical appointments will be allowed to exit and enter the county. However, the county recommends calling the healthcare provider in advance to confirm the appointment.

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On March 18, Governor Cooper announced an executive order closing restaurants and bars for dine-in customers, but allowing takeout and delivery orders to continue. Dare County is encouraging the community to continue to support local restaurants and businesses, including ordering takeout and delivery from favorite restaurants.

“Local stores that sell groceries and other necessary supplies are receiving inventory, however, some items continue to sell out,” continued the bulletin. “Please think of your neighbors and shop responsibly by only purchasing what your household needs.”

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to North Carolina small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. SBA customer service representatives will be available to answer questions and explain the application process at 800-659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.

North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services

North Carolinians can text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive general information and updates about COVID-19. Sign up to get regular alerts on the rapidly evolving situation and North Carolina’s response.

Town of Southern Shores

Planning and Code Enforcement Department:

Town offices are closed to the public until further notice. The town is conducting business by phone, email, fax, online permit submittals and drop box, which is located at the Town Hall front entrance (nearest the flagpole). To receive updates and online permit submittal information, visit the town website at https://www.southernshores-nc.gov/online-permit-submittals/

Town of Kill Devil Hills

Offices at the Town Hall are currently open; however, access is restricted to the public. Access into the Town Hall will be granted by an appointment only. Those with business with the town should call, email or visit www.kdhnc.com to schedule an appointment or to gain additional assistance.

“We are all facing this pandemic together as a community. Practice patience, provide support to your neighbor and choose to keep smiling,” stated the release. “We will persevere with the resiliency that Outer Bankers are known for.”

Town of Nags Head

To ensure the safety of the public, as well as town employees, the Town of Nags Head continues to discourage the public from entering Town Hall. This includes touring Nags Head’s art collection.

There are many ways to conduct business with the town; visit their website at nagsheadnc.gov for more information on conducting business with the town either online or through the phone.

Trash and recycling collection services in Nags Head remain on their normal schedules.

The April 1, 2020 Board of Commissioners meeting has been moved to Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at 9 am.

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