Two Cherokee County Residents Test Positive for COVID-19, Currently Isolated in Cherokee County
Business April 1, 2020
Two Cherokee County residents that tested positive for COVID – 19 are currently isolated in their homes in Cherokee County. These individuals have been linked to the first case identified in Cherokee County with the commonality being the John C. Campbell Folk School event that was attended by the index case. Cherokee County Health Department is working diligently to identify contacts of these cases.
The CDC is now urging anyone who becomes ill with a respiratory type illness to isolate until the following criteria are met:
• At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), AND
• At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
It is also recommended that household and close contacts of persons with a respiratory type illness should quarantine to the extent possible for 14 days and monitor for symptoms of a respiratory illness. If household or close contacts become sick during the 14 day monitoring period, it is advised that they then isolate until the criteria for discontinuation of isolation (listed above) are met.
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, individuals should take the same measures that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, staying home if you are sick and covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow. It is important to make sure the information you are getting about COVID-19 is coming directly from reliable sources like Cherokee County Health Department, CDC, and NCDHHS. For more information, please visit
the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NCDHHS’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which will also include future positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.
Cherokee County Health Department regularly updates our Facebook page with accurate and current information regarding COVID-19, we encourage the public to check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, and other lower respiratory illness (shortness of breath). If you are having a mild respiratory illness, isolate yourself from others until the criteria above is met. If your illness becomes severe requiring urgent or emergent health care, call and inform your health care provider or emergency services of your symptoms prior to arrival.
If you have questions, you may call the Health Department at 828-837-7486 during regular office hours which are Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM.
Cherokee County reports first COVID-19 related death
Business March 31, 2020
PRESS RELEASE – The Cherokee County Health Department is reporting the first COVID-19 associated death by a Cherokee County resident. The individual was in their late 80s and died from complications associated with COVID-19 on March 31, 2020. To protect the privacy of the family no further information about this patient will be released by the Cherokee County Health Department.
Our prayers are with the family and loved ones during this time. This serves as an unfortunate reminder of the seriousness that surrounds COVID-19 and the potential impacts to those high-risk individuals. We as a community must do our part to help stop the spread of the virus by staying at home and practicing social distancing combined with other protective measures when necessary to go out into the public.
The CDC has updated who is at high risk for severe illness. People at high risk include anyone who:
- Is 65 years of age or older
- Lives in a nursing home or long-term care facility
- Has a high-risk condition that includes:
- chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- heart disease with complications
- compromised immune system
- severe obesity – body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
- other underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as diabetes, renal failure or liver disease
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, individuals should take the same measures that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, staying home if you are sick and covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow. It is important to make sure the information you are getting about COVID-19 is coming directly from reliable sources like the Cherokee County Health Department, CDC, and NCDHHS. For more information, please visit
the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NCDHHS’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which will also include future positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.
Cherokee County Health Department regularly updates our Facebook page with accurate and current information regarding COVID-19, we encourage the public to check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, and other lower respiratory illness (shortness of breath). If you are having a mild respiratory illness, isolate yourself from others until the following criteria are met:
• At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), and
• At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
If your illness becomes severe requiring urgent or emergent health care, call and inform your health care provider or emergency services of your symptoms prior to arrival.
If you have questions, you may call the Health Department at 828-837-7486 during regular office hours which are Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM.
UPDATE: Cooper orders North Carolinians to stay home
News, State & National March 13, 2020
RALEIGH, N.C. – On Friday, March 27, Gov. Roy Cooper signed Executive order 121 instructing North Carolinians to remain in their homes except for essential activities and essential work. The order takes effect on Monday, March 30 at 5 p.m. and ends on April 29, but can be extended or lifted early.
This is to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep local hospitals from being overwhelmed with infected patients.
Essential businesses include grocery stores, restaurants – take out and drive-thru only, ABC stores, healthcare providers, pharmacies, hardware stores, post offices, office supply stores, gas stations, convenience stores, veterinarians, pet supply stores, hotels, airlines, public transit, places of worship, child care providers that follow NCDHHS guidelines.
Individuals should stay in their residence except for essential activities, such as grocery shopping, medication, medical appointments, exercise – not in groups larger than 10, essential jobs, etc. At this time, Cooper is seeking voluntary cooperation from the public but can instate law enforcement protocols if necessary.
Social interaction should be limited. People can visit family members to help take care of their medical needs.
People can still go to parks if they remain open.
Businesses that aren’t listed as essential, but owners believe it is to the community, can apply for an exemption with the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
Click here to read FAQs about the order.
Update from March 23 below:
Almost a week after Gov. Roy Cooper ordered restaurants to close all in-dining services, he has issued another order instructing all salons and gyms to close. The Monday, March 23rd conference also told the public that public K-12 schools will remain closed until May 15.
Schools will continue to offer remote instruction until the May date when the situation will be reevaluated.
A list of businesses closing on Wednesday, March 25 at 5 p.m. include gyms, salons, nail salons, barbershops, health clubs, movie theaters, and sweepstakes parlors. Casinos in the state closed last week.
Grocery stores remain open as do restaurants with curbside, takeout, delivery, or drive-thru options. Cooper urged North Carolinians to only buy what they need at the store and leave goods for others who might need it.
New updates and directives are as follows per Executive Order:
Mass Gatherings = 50+ Persons
The new Executive Order modifies Executive Order 117 to limit mass gatherings to no more than 50 people [was 100 people]. Section 1. a.1. of Executive Order 120 provides that a mass gathering is defined as any “event or convening that brings together more than fifty (50) persons in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, or any other confined indoor or outdoor space . . . [and includes] parades, fairs and festivals.” Not included in the definition of mass gatherings are normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, shopping malls and shopping centers. It also does not include office environments, factories, grocery stores and child care facilities.
If a church gathering has a coordinated event or convening for more than 50, such gathering would be prohibited under Section 1(a). If a church has more than 50 employees and they come to work, that would fall within the exemption of Section 1(b) because it functions as an office environment.
If a wedding ceremony or reception has more than 50 attendees, that activity would be prohibited under Section 1(a).
A funeral home can continue to conduct retail business in assisting clients with funeral arrangements. However, a funeral that has more than 50 attendees would be prohibited under Section 1(a).
The Executive Order provides that the above restriction on mass gatherings is a Class 2 misdemeanor and shall be enforced by State and local law enforcement officers.
Entertainment Facilities
Section 1.b. of Executive Order 120 requires the closure of entertainment facilities without a retail or dining component. Entertainment facilities that must close include bowling alleys, health clubs, indoor/outdoor pools, skating rinks, indoor exercise facilities, movie theaters, spas, bingo parlors, and gaming establishments.
Gaming establishments that must close include any “gaming and business establishments which allow gaming activities (e.g. video poker, gaming, sweepstakes, video games, arcade games, pinball machines or other computer, electronic or mechanical devices played for amusement.)” A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
If any of these entertainment facilities have a retail or dining component, those may continue to operate within current emergency restrictions. For example, if a spa has a deli or sandwich shop, they can continue to provide take-out food service to customers. In addition, if a health club has a gift shop, they can continue to sell T-shirts and other items from that retail gift shop.
Personal Care and Grooming Businesses
Section 1.c. also requires the closure of personal care and grooming businesses. This includes barber shops, beauty salons, hair salons, nail salons, massage parlors, and tattoo parlors. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Long Term Care Visitation Limitations
Executive Order 120 places restrictions on patient visitation in long term care facilities. For a more detailed description of this provision, please view the Executive Order.
Continued School Closure
All public schools are closed through Friday, May 15, 2020.
Original article from March 12 below:
In a March 12, 2020 press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper asked North Carolinians to stay away from gatherings of 100 people or more as Coronavirus cases continue to grow throughout the state.
The voluntary measures apply to conferences, assemblies, sporting events, concerts, and worship services. Cooper also stated these protocols could become mandatory if no one followed through with his suggestions.
Employers are also encouraged to allow employees to work from home.
Cooper willing to put mandatory measures in place if the public doesn’t follow through.
The measures go into effect on Friday, March 13.
“Although North Carolina has not seen as much widespread infection as some other states, I want to provide stronger statewide guidance now,” explained Cooper. “Health experts believe that it will protect the health and safety of North Carolinians and help prevent further spread of the virus. I strongly urge all North Carolinians to follow it and take it seriously.”
Don’t close schools just yet
One call to action differing from much of the rest of the county, state government isn’t calling for preemptive school closings. Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen expanded upon the reasoning during the press conference.
She listed multiple reasons, including children tend to gather other places when not in school, one of which is grandparent’s homes – who are labeled as high risk for catching the virus. Also, many children depend on free or reduced breakfast and lunch as their only meals throughout the school year.
“Those are all significant things that contribute to children’s health, and we want to make sure we’re thinking about that,” Cohen stated.
However, childcare and schools are recommended to cancel or reduce large extracurricular activities or events.
Cohen explained why schools should stay open for now.
Several universities in the state have moved to online classes, but students can remain on campus for now.
Cooper declared a state of emergency in North Carolina last week. As of Thursday, the state had 16 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The new cases were reported in Wake, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Forsyth and Johnston counties.
Images courtesy of N.C. government.
USFS closes recreation areas and off-highway trails in North Carolina
News, State & National March 27, 2020
CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. – The United States Forest Service (USFS) has closed recreation facilities in North Carolina’s national forests beginning on March 26. Off-highway trails are also shutdown until May 15.
To protect public health and safety and align with guidance from State of North Carolina health officials and experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recreation facilities at recreation sites on the National Forests in North Carolina (NFs in NC) will be temporarily shut down effective March 26. This includes picnic pavilions, shooting ranges and all restrooms, including those at trailheads and other recreation sites.
These shutdowns are in addition to previous announcements about developed campgrounds, several large developed day-use areas, visitor centers, and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail systems, which remain temporarily shut down. Forest visitors can still enjoy non-motorized trails and dispersed camping at this time, as long as they follow social distancing guidelines.
For a list of facilities on the National Forests in North Carolina that are temporarily shut down, visit: www.fs.usda.gov/detail/nfsnc/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD715959
“We realize our communities and our visitors place high value on the recreation opportunities the Forest has to offer,” said Allen Nicholas, National Forests in North Carolina Forest Supervisor. “A lot of discussion and consideration went into this decision. The health and safety of our employees and the public remain our top priority. We believe people understand the serious risks posed by facilities that draw large numbers of people into close proximity to each other. We appreciate your patience and understanding of our efforts to mitigate those risks to protect public health and safety.”
The National Forests in NC asks members of the public to recreate responsibly by avoiding gathering in groups of more than ten people and not engaging in high-risk activities, like rock climbing, that increase the chance of injury or distress. Law enforcement and search and rescue operations may be limited due to COVID-19. In addition, visitors can help mitigate resource impacts while recreation sites are shut down by bringing home their trash (pack it in, pack it out), and by appropriately managing human waste by burying it at least six to eight inches deep and 200 feet away from water, trails and recreation sites.
The National Forests in North Carolina Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail systems will be temporarily shut down until May 15, at which time the situation will be reevaluated. This applies to the following OHV areas:
Croatan National Forest – Black Swamp OHV Area
Uwharrie National Forest – Badin Lake OHV Area
Pisgah National Forest – Brown Mountain OHV Area
Nantahala National Forest – Wayehutta OHV Area
These actions are consistent with federal and state health and safety direction to help reduce the impact on emergency responders and limit the spread of COVID-19. Use of the OHV trails strains emergency resources, especially search and rescue crews, at a time when the resources are already limited within the local communities.
As we work through an unpredictable and rapidly changing situation, health and safety is our number one priority. We are committed to continuing to support our communities and fulfill our mission as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.
Another Cherokee County N.C. Resident Tests Positive for COVID-19
Health, News March 26, 2020
PRESS RELEASE FROM CHEROKEE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT: A Cherokee County resident that tested positive for COVID-19 is being monitored and following isolation orders in Cherokee County. The Cherokee County Health Department was notified that a resident of our county was on a cruise line and had been exposed to a person with confirmed COVID-19 while on the cruise. At the time that the Health Department was notified, the patient had known of their exposure for approximately five days and had self-quarantined since notification. The individual developed mild symptoms and the Health Department coordinated testing for COVID-19.
This individual has been on isolation since before becoming symptomatic. We can say with great certainty that this case was isolated during the symptomatic phase of the illness and therefore had little to no opportunity to spread the virus.
New recommendations from the CDC now urge anyone who becomes ill with a respiratory type illness to isolate until the following criteria are met:
• At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), and
• At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
It is also recommended that household and close contacts of persons with a respiratory type illness should quarantine to the extent possible for 14 days and monitor for symptoms of a respiratory illness. If household or close contacts become sick during the 14 day monitoring period, it is advised that they then isolate until the criteria for discontinuation of isolation (listed above) are met.
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, individuals should take the same measures that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, staying home if you are sick and covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow. It is important to make sure the information you are getting about COVID-19 is coming directly from reliable sources like Cherokee County Health Department, CDC, and NCDHHS. For more information, please visit
the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NCDHHS’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which will also include future positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.
Cherokee County Health Department regularly updates our Facebook page with accurate and current information regarding COVID-19, we encourage the public to check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, and other lower respiratory illnesses (shortness of breath). If you are having a mild respiratory illness, isolate yourself from others until the criteria above is met. If your illness becomes severe requiring urgent or emergent health care, call and inform your health care provider or emergency services of your symptoms prior to arrival.
If you have questions, you may call the Health Department at 828-837-7486 during regular office hours which are Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM.
UPDATE: COVID-19 line established by health departments and Erlanger
Community, News March 27, 2020
CLAY COUNTY, N.C. – Cherokee County Health Department in conjunction with Clay County Health Department, Graham Country Health Department and Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital has opened a COVID-19 Community Information line.
Beginning Thursday, community members can call 828-835-4258 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to speak with a representative. There is no cost and no insurance needed. This public service provides convenient access to local health care providers who will answer their questions. This is NOT a COVID-19 test screening line.
“Cherokee County Government and our community partners have a responsibility to protect the public health and assist the community in managing emergency events,” said David Badger, Health Director, Cherokee County Health Department. “We can best meet this objective by continuing to work together to help lessen the potential spread of COVID-19 by following the previously listed guidance.”
Original article from March 11 below:
The Clay County Health Department (CCHD) has created a phone number for the community to call and stay updated on the COVID-19.
The line will be updated every day “or so” according to the CCHD with any status changes within the community. The number to call is (828) 389-8052 ext. 110.
In a statement released on Facebook, CCHD stated:
“The Clay County Health Department would like for our community to know that we are persistently keeping up to date on evolving information about COVID-19. We have established a local line that we will be updating every day or so with any status changes. The line can be reached at (828) 389-8052 ext. 110. We also recommend reliable sites such as the CDC and NCDHHS for up to date and accurate information.”
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days after exposure. The average incubation period is five days.
CORVID-19
80 percent of patients with a confirmed case of COVID-19 have mild symptoms. In severe cases, patients have developed pneumonia in both lungs, and in others, patients have died. The current death toll in the United States is 29 out of a total of 938 cases. Also, 38 states and the District of Columbia have reported coronavirus cases.
According to the CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health, the best way to prevent the virus is to wash your hands, regularly and for 20 seconds. If you can’t use soap, then use a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. To make sure that you’re washing your hands long enough, sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
Also, you should avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth, or nose; cover your sneeze or cough with a tissue and then throw it away, stay home if you’re sick; and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Finally, get a flu shot. It wouldn’t prevent COVID-19, but it will lessen flu symptoms which will make the jobs of health facilities easier.
Three Cherokee County, NC residents and Illinois resident test positive for COVID-19
Health, News March 21, 2020
CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. – Around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 20, Cherokee County Health Department issued a press release concerning four new COVID-19 cases. Three are Cherokee County residents. See the entire release below.
“Two Cherokee County residents that tested positive for COVID – 19 are being monitored and following isolation orders in Cherokee County. The patients are household contacts of the case from New York that tested positive in Cherokee County earlier this week. Both the index case (patient from New York) and the residents from Cherokee County have been isolated since testing was initiated on the patient from New York.
A third Cherokee County resident has tested positive for COVID – 19 and is currently isolated in their home since testing was initiated. This patient attended the contra dance on March 10th at the John C. Campbell Folk School which the New York patient had also attended. The patient is at home on isolation. Cherokee County Health Department will continue necessary contact tracing on this patient in identifying close contacts.
A resident of Illinois that tested positive for COVID – 19 is being monitored and following isolation orders in Cherokee County. The patient had traveled from Illinois and was staying in the home with the index case (patient from New York) that tested positive in Cherokee County earlier this week. Since cases are reported under the state of residency, this case will be identified as an Illinois case, not a North Carolina case. Therefore, this case will not show up on the North Carolina maps as a Cherokee County case. Both the index case from New York and the resident from Illinois are isolated since testing was initiated on the patient from New York.
Both of the Cherokee County individuals and the Illinois case have been on isolation since before becoming symptomatic. For this reason, contact tracing on these three cases will not be necessary. We can say with great certainty that these cases were isolated during the symptomatic phase of the illness and therefore had little to no opportunity to spread the virus.
It is now advised that anyone who becomes ill with a respiratory type illness should isolate until the following criteria are met:
• 7 days have passed since the onset of symptoms; AND
• At least 72 hours without a fever (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and respiratory symptoms are improvingBecause COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, individuals should take the same measures that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, staying home if you are sick and covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow.
It is important to make sure the information you are getting about COVID-19 is coming directly from reliable sources like Cherokee County Health Department, CDC, and NCDHHS. For more information, please visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NCDHHS’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which will also include future positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.
Cherokee County Health Department regularly updates our Facebook page with accurate and current information regarding COVID-19, we encourage the public to check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, and other lower respiratory illness (shortness of breath). If you are having a mild respiratory illness, isolate yourself from others until the criteria above is met. If your illness becomes severe requiring urgent or emergent health care, call and inform your health care provider or emergency services of your symptoms prior to arrival. If you have questions, you may call the Health Department at 828-837-7486 during regular office hours which are Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM.”
Cherokee County Business and Restaurant operations
Community March 20, 2020
Cherokee County, NC- (Updated 3/20) On March 17th at 5 p.m. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper gave the order that all restaurants and bars were to be closed to sit-down services and open to curbside takeout and delivery only. Since then, many local businesses have followed suite and modified the way that they are operating on a day to day bases, in an effort to help combat the spread of the Coronavirus. Below is a list of businesses in and around Cherokee County and how they will be operating during this time.
GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SERVICES
The Town of Murphy and The Town of Andrews have declared a State of Emergency as of Friday, March 20, 2020. Curfews have been implemented barring pedestrian traffic within the city limits from 9:00pm to 6:00 am.
Valley River Humane Society- During this time of concern please do not forget about the Animals. Valley River Humane Society Animal Shelter is still open to the public. They are very close to full capacity and have lowered some of the adoption costs hoping to place animals with new families.
John C Campbell Folk School- Suspending all classes, events, dances and concerts until April 18th. EMPTY BOWLS, our annual fundraiser for Cherokee and Clay county food banks (initially scheduled for March 21), has been postponed.
Peachtree Community Center- Grocery bingo at Peachtree Community Club canceled 3/20, 2020. Also the facility is temporarily unavailable for rental until further notice due to federal and state government recommendations.
Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce- Closed to the public, available via phone
NC Works Career Center- Closed to the public, available via phone
Cherokee County Senior Games- Senior Games registration and events have been canceled until further notice.
First United Methodist Church- Worship services are online, under “Worship” on their homepage.
Shepherd of the Mountain Church- Sunday Morning livestream services at https://shepherdchurchnc.com/media and on the Shepherd Church facebook page.
Village Church- Sunday Morning livestream services on Facebook.
BUSINESSES
Cherokee Valley River Casino- Closed for 2 weeks effective March 18th.
Jim Miller State Farm- Not meeting face to face with clients at this time.
Steven Aft State Farm- Closed to Public until further notice.
Farley Insurance- Agency has decided to close all our lobbies until further notice. We are committed to servicing our policies and helping our customers in the best way possible; and in order to remain open to do this, we ask that you try phone and email contact prior to visiting our locations for the time-being.
Rumors Clothing- Open as of now
Peacock Performing Arts Center- rescheduled “Legacy Motown Review” from April 4th 2020 to November 7th 2020. Tickets already purchased for April 4th show have been switched as valid for the November 7th rescheduled date. Peacock Performing Arts Center has rescheduled “The Last Round-Up of the Guacamole Queens” from May 2020 to May 21st- May 30th of 2021. Tickets already purchased for May of 2020 show have been switched as valid for the May 2021 rescheduled dates.
LUV N Mountain Soaps located in downtown Murphy staying open with precautions. Hours will be Friday and Saturday 10pm- 4pm.
Great Smoky Mountain RailRoad- Suspended until April 1st
Camp Happy Dog- Providing full services including day care from 8am-6pm and over night boarding.
Lake Chatuge Animal Hospital- Appointments are encouraged and limited space in the lobby is available. Curbside patient pickup available on request.
Tri-County Animal Clinic- open by appointment only. The lobby has been closed with the exception of a one owner rule accompanied by the patient. Payments can be done over the phone and Curbside medication assistance is available.
Black and White Market- open Monday through Friday 11am-4pm and on Saturdays 11am-3pm.
Ameriprise Financial Advisor Carmen Lance- Closed to walk ins and open by appointment only
Edward Jones Financial Advisor Charlie Spence- Closed to walk ins and open by appointment only during the COVID-19 response
Edward Jones Financial Advisor Christie Standish- Closed to walk ins and open by appointment only during the COVID-19 response.
First Citizens Bank- encourages drive through services, However many of our branch lobbies remain open for business and you can also feel free to call your banker for an appointment.
Murphy Farmers Market- Cancelled until further notice
WagonMaster Ranch Fun Park- We ask that if you have a sick family member, please don’t come during this time. We are open Wednesday – Saturday 11 am – 5 pm.
Edward Jones Financial Advisor Trevor Walker- Closed to walk ins and open by appointment only during the COVID-19 response.
Restaurants Offering Takeout-
- Copper Door
- Ronnies Bar & Grill
- Graneri’s Italian Restaurant
- Bojangles
- So’s Good Kitchen
- Zaxbys
- Monte Alban Mexican Restaurant
- Ingles Markets
- Grandpa Charlies Country Cookin
- Chik-Fil-A
- Dunkin Donuts
- Parson Pub
- Rib Country
- Rods Rockin Rolls
- The Bake Shop
- Captain D’s
- Shoebooties
- McDonalds
- Valley River Eatery and Brewery
- Chevelles
- Sals Brooklyn Pizza
- Hoppy Trout
- Calaboose Cellars
- Julie’s Place
- Arby’s
- Burger Boy
- Wendy’s
- Taco Bell
- Waffle King
- Waffle House
- Subway at Fatbacks & Walmart
- Hardee’s
- Mainstreet USA
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE COVID-19
If you think you may have contracted SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 please call your primary healthcare provider first. Your doctor will advise you as to whether you need to come in for testing. Do visit an Emergency Room if you feel that you have life threatening symptoms. It is advised to call hospitals or doctor’s offices ahead of time to let them know that you are on your way. This allows time for staff to prepare for your arrival and minimize the possibility of contact with patients in high risk categories.
N.C. residents can dial 2-1-1 to gain COVID-19 information
Community, Lifestyle, Press Release March 23, 2020RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina has a dedicated referral and information service (2-1-1) for residents to use to find out more information about COVID-19.
nc211.org is an information and referral service that families and individuals can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services resources within their community. NC 2-1-1 operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and resources are available in most languages.
“Services like NC 2-1-1 are critical during times of emergency,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolinians can now call 2-1-1 to get the information they need while we continue working together to prevent the spread of this virus.”
North Carolinians can text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive general information and updates about COVID-19. Sign up now to get regular alerts on the rapidly evolving situation and North Carolina’s response.
NC 2-1-1 can refer callers to the organizations in their local community best equipped to address their specific health and human services needs including food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, health care, employment, substance abuse treatment, as well as specific resources for older adults and for persons with disabilities, and much more. Simply dial 2-1-1 or TTY 888-892-1162 for assistance.
NC 2-1-1 cannot provide direct medical services, and COVID-19 can only be diagnosed by a health care professional. If you suspect you or someone you care for may have symptoms or have been exposed to the virus, you should contact your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, you can call your local health department, free and charitable clinics or a Federally Qualified Health Clinic for guidance.
People should only call 9-1-1 if they are experiencing an emergency. 9-1-1 centers across North Carolina have been receiving general questions and other non-emergency calls related to COVID-19. Please do not call 9-1-1 unless you have an emergency.
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in North Carolina, go to ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus.
Due to anticipated high call volume, those seeking general information about COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to sign up for texts. People who are trying to locate specific services would benefit by calling. To learn more about NC 2-1-1, visit NC 2-1-1.
Ask the Doc! All things Covid-19
Health March 20, 2020
#BKP and Dr. William Whaley are joined by Dr. Raymond Tidman to discuss all things Covid-19.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUuEayr0hKQ
Murphy and Andrews declare state of emergency, curfew in place
Community, Health, Lifestyle March 20, 2020MURPHY, N.C. – Murphy Mayor David Ramsey and Andrews Mayor James Reid issued a statement officially declaring states of emergencies in their respective towns and instilling curfews for pedestrians.
The Murphy curfew begins a 9 p.m. and extends until 6 a.m, starting on March 20.
The curfew doesn’t apply to employees of businesses that are open to employees or customers of open businesses who are traveling directly to the stores and back to their cars.
Additionally, the curfew order doesn’t apply to occupants in motor vehicles, just pedestrians.
Murphy Mayor David Ramsey
Anyone found in non-compliance with this order “shall be guilty of a Class Three Misdemeanor and subject to imprisonment of up to 20 days or a fine up to $100.00.”
Andrews Curfew
Mayor James Reid of Andrews, N.C. also issued a state of emergency and declared a curfew on pedestrians from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. It begins at 9 p.m. on March 20.
Any pedestrians found in a public area – street, highway, parking lot, or place – can be found in violation of the emergency order and could be “punish[ed with a] Class 2 Misdemeanor, subjecting the violater to up to 60 days imprisonment and/or a $1,000 fine.
The curfew ends with the state of emergency expires.
N.C. declared a state of emergency on March 10, 2020, and on March 17, Gov. Roy Cooper restricted the sale of food and beverages to carry out, drive-thru, and delivery only.
On March 18, Cherokee County, N.C. Health Department confirmed that an individual tested positive for COVID-19 and is isolating in the area.
The individual did attend a contra dance at John C. Campbell Folk School on March 10 and the health department asks anyone who also attended and is showing COVID-19 symptoms to call 837-7486.
Statement from Cherokee County N.C. Board of Commissioners
“During these unprecedented times of COVID-19, better known as the Novel Coronavirus, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners wants to reassure the public that it is committed to the health, welfare and safety of its citizens and visitors. Cherokee County Commissioners have been actively working closely with county administration and public health, the county attorney, public safety personnel and key community partners in an effort to reduce the risk of exposure to, and transmission of, COVID-19. Our staff has been meeting weekly to discuss what measures have been taken, are being taken, and need to be taken by various county departments and organizations, so that we can continue providing essential community services and programs. Daily meetings are occurring to stay abreast of the changes taking place at the state and federal level, and are participating in webinars and conference calls on a daily basis. We are all working toward the ultimate goal of protecting our citizens and visitors.”
New York COVID-19 patient attended a dance at the Folk School
Featured, Health March 19, 2020
CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. – The New York resident, who tested positive for COVID-19 in Cherokee County and is now isolating in the area, attended the contra dance on March 10 at the John C. Campbell Folk School. The creative-focused institution is currently in process of notifying individuals who might have come in contact with the individual.
At this time, it’s believed the individual visited the Folk School before being tested for the virus.
In a press release issued by Cherokee County Health Department on March 18, it stated:
“A New York resident that tested positive for COVID-19 is being monitored and following isolation orders in Cherokee County. The patient is doing well and is in isolation. The patient is a resident of New York State and traveled to Cherokee County, where they became ill and were tested and placed on isolation. Since cases are reported under the state of residency, this case will be identified as a New York State case, not a North Carolina case. Therefore, this case will not show up on the North Carolina maps as a Cherokee County case.
The Cherokee County Health Department is working diligently to identify close contacts. The CDC defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with an infection with COVID-19 for a prolonged period of time of 10 minutes or longer. Based on information provided by the individual, county health officials will continue to assess risks of exposure, determine which if any additional measures are needed such as temperature and symptom checks, quarantine and/or testing for those impacted.”
The Folk School is in the process of identifying and notifying students, staff, and community members who may have come in contact with this person. If you have concerns regarding details of this specific situation or health-related questions, we encourage you to contact Cherokee County Department of Public Health at (828) 837-7486. If you know of anyone who was at the dance, please refer them to this post. For further concerns, feel free to contact The Folk School at 1-800-365-5724 or 828-837-2775.
The safety of our Folk School community is the institution’s top priority, and the administration encourages everyone to take care of themselves. They will update their website as needed with information regarding COVID-19 related matters.
Special announcements from Cherokee County Schools
Cherokee County Schools, News March 16, 2020
Cherokee County Schools, Program Announcement
ACE At-home Curriculum Extension and Digital Learning Day
Governor Cooper announced an executive order affecting all K-12 public schools. As such, Cherokee County Schools will be closed for students beginning Monday, March 16, for at least two weeks. This closure affects all programming, including all after-school activities, all athletic and extracurricular practices, and competitions, and weekend events.
The week of Monday, March 16, will be regular workdays for employees, including teacher’s assistants unless you are ill and wish to take sick leave. Please note that school nutrition employees will be reporting to assigned meal sites. School Nutrition will be operating 6 pick up sites: AES, PES, MCEMS, MES, HD, and Ranger. Students and parents of students may pick up two meals at once and pickup times at these schools are between 8 am and 1 pm.
In consultation with state and local leaders, we will determine a schedule to re-open school at a later date.
CCS ACE Packets and Digital Learning Plans
Our school system has prepared for closure. As such, Cherokee County ACE and Digital Learning Days will be in effect starting this week. Please check for information that was sent home on Friday, March 13. Resource links and information will also be posted on our website. If your child did not bring their device or an ACE packet home on Friday, we will formulate a plan to get those devices and resources to students. We will share those details with you soon.
For additional information on the ACE At-Home Curriculum Extension packets please contact your student’s principal. Principals will be monitoring their email and will respond to your questions as soon as possible. Principals may be reached at the following email addresses:
AES: [email protected]
AHS: [email protected]
AMS: [email protected]
HDEMS: [email protected]
HDHS: [email protected]
MCEMS: [email protected]
MES: [email protected]
MHS: [email protected]
MMS: [email protected]
PES: [email protected]
REMS: [email protected]
TCEC: [email protected]
The Oaks: [email protected]
Board of Education Public Hearing for Consolidation
Trump COVID-19 Guidelines limit gatherings to 10
Featured Stories, State & National March 16, 2020
WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump and the White House COVID-19 task force issued new guidelines for the next 15 days, including limiting gatherings to 10 people and avoiding dining in public spaces.
The 3 p.m. press conference focused on how telling Americans how they can help “flatten the curve” of the virus, so the nation can “turn the corner.”
In the guidelines issued today, Americans are highly advised to:
- Limit gatherings to 10 people or less, including in-home gatherings
- Avoid eating or drinking in restaurants, bars, or public food courts, use drive-thrus, pick-up, and delivery services
- Avoid discretionary travel – shopping trips and social visits
- Do not visit nursing homes, long-term health care, or retirement facilities
- Wash your hands
- Don’t touch your face
- Sneeze or cough into a tissue or inside of your elbow
- Disinfect used items and surfaces frequently
However, Trump cautioned that everyone may feel the effects of COVID-19 into July and August. Also, the President didn’t want to focus on the possibility of a recession at this time. He believes the markets will rebound once the virus abates.
“I think you’re going to see a tremendous, tremendous surge,” Trump said about the markets.
copy of new guidelines from the White House and CDC.
While the White House isn’t instituting a nationwide quarantine presently, Trump did make it clear that “hot spots” could potentially be placed under quarantine. Currently, the New Rochelle is considered a “containment zone” not a quarantined city.
Dr. Deborah Birx, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator, added that anyone who is sick should stay home. Also, if anyone in a home is diagnosed with COVID-19, the entire house should quarantine in the home to prevent spread.
“We really want people to be separated at this time,” Birx stated. She also addressed millennials directly because changes in their behaviors could significantly affect the course of the virus. Millennials are connected to each other and can spread information across platforms.
copy of guidelines from the White House and CDC.
