September 1-7, 2021
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COVID-19 deaths continue across the region STAFF R EPORTS acon County Public Health received notification Aug. 30 that a Macon County resident between the ages of 65-74 who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away. This death brings Macon County to 44 deaths related to COVID-19. “This family is in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one,” said Health Director Kathy McGaha. “Macon County residents can help protect themselves and others in our community by receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Macon County has appointments available for the lifesaving vaccine for everyone who is 12 years old and older. The more individuals who get this vaccine, the more likely that we will stop seeing COVID-19 deaths.” Haywood County Health and Human Services received notice of two more COVID19 deaths on Aug. 24, bringing the total deaths in Haywood to 108. One individual was between the ages of 80-85 and died at Haywood Regional Medical Center on Aug. 16. The immediate cause of death was COVID-19 pneumonia. The other individual was between the ages of 80-85 and died at Haywood Regional Medical Center on Aug. 17. The immediate cause of death was acute hypoxic respiratory failure, COVID-19. “We at Haywood County Health and Human Services extend our deepest sympa-
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thies to the family and loved ones during this time of loss,” said Health Director Sarah Henderson. “COVID-19 is a serious and sometimes deadly illness. We ask everyone to consider the pain and loss this virus can bring with it and do everything you can to help prevent its spread.” Between Aug. 17 and Aug. 24, Haywood County Public Health received notice of 226 new cases of COVID-19. According to the CDC, all of North Carolina is listed as an area of high community transmission. All surrounding states are also high-transmission areas. Mask-wearing indoors is now highly recommended in such areas. Masks are now required in Haywood County facilities, including the libraries, for employees and the public. Parents are strongly recommended to encourage their school-age children to wear masks at school. “Between COVID-19, severe weather, staffing concerns, and several other factors, Haywood County is faced with a critical situation. The emergency medical system is stretched to its capacity. Hospitals through-
out the region are full. Patients needing transport by ambulance are having to wait outside, sometimes for hours, in the ambulance before a bed in the emergency department is available,” Henderson said. “Everyone needs to be aware of the seriousness of the situation and take steps to stay safe. Avoid unnecessary travel, dangerous
activities, and take all safety precautions to protect your health and wellbeing in a time when medical care options are under more pressure than usual.” Swain County is also reporting high community transmission of COVID-19. As of Aug. 24, the county had 89 active COVID-19 cases in Swain County
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