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Two of the four counties in the Roanoke-Chowan area reported declines last week in the number of active cases of COVID-19.

Bertie County reported the lone increase, rising from 20 to 22 active cases.

Gates County had the largest decline, falling from 16 to six cases. The number of active cases also fell in Northampton County, from 20 to 15.

Hertford County reported 11 active cases, unchanged from the previous week.

There were no COVID-19 related deaths locally between Nov. 28 and Dec. 4, marking the second straight week of that good news.

However, local health officials are recommending those already vaccinated need to still consider receiving a booster shot.

“With the recommendation for everyone 18 and older to receive a booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna we are working with our partners to offer another set of drive-thru mass vaccine clinics across the region,” said R. Battle Betts, Jr., Health Director of Albemarle Regional Health Services.

“We hope that rounding the year out with mass clinics will give everyone ample opportunity to get their booster doses before the Christmas holidays,” Betts added. “We encourage those who have not gotten their vaccine yet to schedule your appointment at one of the many locations in the area that offer vaccines.”

The FDA and CDC is recommending anyone 18 years or older who received the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine can receive a booster six months after their second dose to help strengthen and extend protections against COVID-19.

ARHS is offering a drive-thru Pfizer and Moderna booster shot clinic today (Wednesday) from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Bertie County Recreation Complex, located at 1538 South King Street in Windsor.

Booster mass clinics are for individuals living in the ARHS eight county region. Please bring your vaccine card with you to the drive-thru clinic so staff can verify your primary vaccine series.

In addition, ARHS continues to offer appointments for Pfizer vaccinations for ages 5 years and older, as well as Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for adults 18 and over. Appointments are for first, second, third and booster doses.

To make an appointment, 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).

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