Although Triangle counties are withholding coronavirus test details, there are still plenty of people affected in Wake County. Research done by Kimberly Powers, professor of Epidemiology at UNC-Chapel Hill, predicts NC could have a total of 2,000 cases by April 2. So, how is this possible spiral impacting Wake County?
Local dine-in restaurants have now shut down for service, and moved to curbside carry-out orders only. Fast food joints can only serve drive-thru orders to keep business running. This change in the restaurant industry has caused a great deal of turn-over. The most extreme example of this is Backyard Bistro in Raleigh, who now only have 7 of their 40 workers still employed.
Furthermore, other businesses such as fitness centers, salons and concert venues are suspended until April 30. Durham is the first city in Wake County to call for a city-lockdown. As for schooling, Governor Cooper has called for all K-12 schools to be closed until May 15, as well as playgrounds.
There are a few things to shine some light on the good news in this pandemic. Duke hospital in Durham has been active in relief efforts for the virus as they have opened its first drive-up COVID-19 testing center on Tuesday, March 17. Meanwhile, on the same day, Wake County has released unemployment benefits, as well as a break on late taxes.
This will be an on-going coverage, as circumstances change and the affect of the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly impact all areas of the country.
