According to the latest Bladen County Health and Human Services COVID-19 (coronavirus) update, cases continue to increase. The latest North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) reported an increase in COVID-19 cases in the ongoing outbreak in the congregate living setting of Bladen East Health and Rehab facility located on Poplar Street in Elizabethtown.
According to the report, 10 Bladen East Health and Rehab staff members have tested positive with the virus, and two residents’ deaths are related to COVID-19.
Yesterday, Bladen County Schools announced a staff member at Clarkton School of Discovery confirmed testing positive for COVID-19 as well. The health department is now investigating the case. According to Valerie F. Newton, with Bladen County Schools, the number of staff members who came into contact with this employee is minimal.
Dr. Teresa (Terri) Duncan stated earlier this week, “Increases cases are not limited to one area, facility or group. The virus is truly community spread. Now more than ever, the 3Ws are vitally important to slow the spread of the virus.”
The 3 Ws are: Wait six feet apart, wash your hands, and wear a mask.
Today’s update has Bladen County COVID-19 positive cases up to a total of 814 cases with 12 related deaths and 72 active cases.
For COVID-19 testing, contact one of the agencies below.
CommWell Health (1-910-567-7114 or 1-877-WELL-ALL (935-5255) continues to test in Tar Heel, Monday-Friday, times vary.
Robeson Health Care Corporation is testing at the St. Pauls site (910-241-30420), times vary.
Cape Fear Valley-Bladen Clinics and Express Care offer testing (Bladenboro, Clarkton, Dublin Elizabethtown and White Lake) for anyone exhibiting symptoms or those in high risk groups without symptoms, after a visit with the provider on duty. Contact the clinic located in your area for further information:
Bladenboro 910-863-3138
Clarkton 910-862-1217
Dublin 910-862-3528
Elizabethtown 910-862-5500
White Lake 910-862-1265
Express Care 910-862-2122
In addition to fever, cough and shortness of breath, the CDC added symptoms for the coronavirus: chills, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, and a new loss of taste.
Dr. Duncan, Bladen County Health and Human Services Director, announced there were discussions about Bladen County receiving a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines for the at-risk population in November for the high-risk population and a larger amount of the vaccines in 2021.
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