Two people test positive for coronavirus in Mecklenburg County, health officials confirm

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Two people have tested positive for coronavirus at locations in Mecklenburg County, health officials confirmed Thursday.

It’s unclear if they live in Mecklenburg County.

Health Director Gibbie Harris called on senior living facilities to restrict visitors and said people over the age of 65 should avoid mass gatherings, including church services.

Harris said Gov. Roy Cooper plans to address mass gatherings at a news conference Thursday afternoon.

“We are now in a situation where we could potentially have community spread,” Harris said.

Officials said one of the presumptive positive cases was tied to out of the country travel, and the other was possibly tied to out of state travel.

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Harris said the people are ill but not severely ill. They are isolating at home.

Officials said they will not be naming the individuals or saying where they live or work.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent Earnest Winston said he has a meeting Thursday evening to look at what plans the district has in place.

He’s telling families to take precautionary steps; if a child or parent is sick, students should stay home. Schools remain open.

The aviation director for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport said people need to choose whether to travel and listen to recommendations.

They’re looking into protective equipment for employees.

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