The 24th death related to the novel coronavirus in Halifax County comes as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services told health directors in a Zoom meeting that today represents the highest single day of new novel coronavirus cases, deaths, and hospitalizations, Health Director Bruce Robistow said this afternoon.

In its update today the health department reported the state confirmed during that meeting across North Carolina there have been 2,532 new cases.

The  24th Halifax County death, according to the NCDHHS COVID-19 dashboard was reported from within the Littleton area ZIP code and represents the first related death to be reported from that area.

The breakdown of the 24 deaths is as follows: 16 within the Roanoke Rapids area ZIP code; three within the Weldon area ZIP code; one within the Hollister area ZIP code; one within the Enfield area ZIP code; one within the Littleton area ZIP code; and two within the Scotland Neck area ZIP code. 

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The increase across the state was expected, Robistow said this afternoon. “What it says to me is the predicted rise in numbers that were expected for late fall and winter appear to already be increasing. The state nor does the local health department attribute this to any one single cause or event. It is a very broad spectrum increase that is occurring throughout the state.”

He said scientists have been projecting increases in North Carolina and other states based on the fact people would be socializing more inside than outside because of the weather “and that the ability to social distance and have appropriate air exchange or airflow is reduced.”

Robistow said the record day of positives across the state should be a reminder to follow the Three Ws — handwashing, waiting 6 feet apart, and wearing a facial covering. “If people would be following the three Ws in some semblance this wouldn’t be here. This is reflective of people’s non-compliance with the governor’s executive orders. Following the executive orders and the Three Ws are the one proven way to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The health department today added 25 new positive cases which brings the total since testing began in March to 1,207.

Today’s graphical information shows an increase in the trend of positives since March 25.