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by Charlotte Smith

North Carolina and Bladen county officials confirm that COVID-19 (coronavirus) cases have increased as schools in the county and state go back to in-person learning.

Bladen County active, positive COVID-19 cases increased by six over yesterday’s reported cases. View the full report below.

Compare to yesterday’s report:

Although Bladen County Schools confirmed about nine staff members tested positive for COVID-19 since the summer, there have been no reports of outbreaks in the local school system.

One Bladen County Public Charter School, Emereau: Bladen, was listed on the state’s website under the ongoing cluster report in September. One Emereau: Bladen staff member and four students were reported to have tested positive for COVID-19. *The school’s grade level affected went to virtual learning due to the outbreak, according to school officials.

Although cases are increasing, officials explain they take a broader approach when looking at data. North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services secretary said today in a press conference, “We don’t look at any one day.”

NC Governor Roy Cooper explained his administration looks at two weeks of reports to gauge the COVID-19 Pandemic impacts.

He said, “Now is the time to double down and practice the three W’s.” The three W’s are Wear a mask, Wash your hands and Watch your distance.

According to North Carolina data, another note to be addressed is depression and anxiety have tripled since the start of the pandemic. Bladen County Emergency Management Director, David Howell, said there had been a 28% increase in Bladen County overdoses since January. He contributed the increase to the pandemic.

The rise in mental health is mostly affecting younger people and underrepresented communities.