NC reports highest COVID percent positive rate since start of pandemic

RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released new metrics on Monday as the omicron variant of COVID-19 continues to spread across the state.

The state reported 12,989 new COVID-19 cases with a 27.4% daily percent positive rate -- which is the highest percent positive rate reported since the start of the pandemic and well above the state’s 5% goal.

In addition, 335 more people were hospitalized with the virus and 31 more North Carolinians died over the weekend from COVID-19.

Data suggests that the omicron variant of COVID-19 may cause less severe illness for people who are vaccinated.

However, people who are unvaccinated or have underlying medical conditions are at the highest risk of severe illness and hospitalization.

NCDHHS is closely monitoring hospital capacity and is urging North Carolinians to gather safely, get vaccinated and boosted, and wear a mask indoors in public places.

(WATCH BELOW: Health leaders in Mecklenburg County say more COVID-19 tests are on the way)

Health leaders in Mecklenburg County say more COVID-19 tests are on the way

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