COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in North Carolina on Dec. 6

We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in North Carolina. Check back for updates.

More than 2,100 new cases reported

At least 1,553,112 people in North Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus, and at least 18,860 have died since March 2020, according to state health officials.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services on Monday, Dec. 6, reported 2,101 new COVID-19 cases, down from 2,784 on Sunday and 3,683 on Saturday. The state doesn’t update case counts over the weekends.

Thirty-five coronavirus-related deaths were added on Dec. 6. Health officials don’t specify the dates on which newly reported deaths occurred.

At least 1,307 people were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Dec. 6, including 345 adults being treated in intensive care units, health officials said.

On Dec. 4, the latest date with available information, 7.7% of coronavirus tests were reported positive. Health officials say 5% or lower is the target rate to slow the spread of the virus.

Roughly 73% of adults in North Carolina have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and about 69% have been fully vaccinated. Out of the state’s total population, about 57% are fully vaccinated and 62% have received at least one dose. State officials round vaccination numbers to the nearest whole number.

COVID metrics rise, so Mecklenburg mask mandate likely to stay

A Charlotte area face mask mandate is still in place as coronavirus metrics rise in the region.

Mecklenburg County said it would lift its mask requirement if the rate of positive COVID-19 cases stood below 5% for a week. But the latest data shows the county had a seven-day average of 8.3%.

Coronavirus-related hospitalizations also have increased in recent weeks, The Charlotte Observer reported Dec. 6.

Mecklenburg is seeing these trends as the omicron coronavirus variant has been reported in several U.S. states. Dr. David Priest, an infectious disease expert at Novant Health, said the omicron coronavirus variant is among the reasons it’s important to keep wearing face coverings in public.