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After a lull in the number of active COVID-19 cases locally, it appears the virus is making a comeback.

The number of active cases locally increased slightly last week: 19 in Northampton, nine in Gates (up from three cases the previous week), and eight in Bertie. Hertford County’s number of active cases fell from nine to five.

“With another week of increased COVID-19 cases in the region, we urge our community members who have not gotten their vaccine to please schedule your appointment,” said R. Battle Betts, Jr., Health Director of Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS).

“Areas with low vaccination rates are seeing rises in cases, so now is the time to get your shot,” Betts continued. “The vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe illness and death; vaccination is the only way out of this pandemic.”

Updated NCDHHS guidance reminds unvaccinated people that they need to continue practicing the three W’s – wear a mask in all indoor public settings, wait six feet apart in all public settings, and wash hands often.

In addition, unvaccinated people should not gather with other unvaccinated people who do not live with them. If they do, they should stay outside and keep 6 feet of distance. It is also recommended that unvaccinated people should not travel.

ARHS is continuing to accept vaccine appointments (ages 12-and-up) for first and second dose Moderna and Pfizer, along with Johnson and Johnson, at each of its local health departments. Those in the R-C area can call the Gates County Health Dept. (252-357-1380), the Bertie County Health Dept. (252-794-5322), or the Hertford County Health Dept. (252-862-4054). Those offices can also be contacted for COVID testing.

Northampton County residents can call 252-534-5841 to schedule an appointment for either a COVID-19 vaccine or test.