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We’re not completely out of the woods just yet.

Even though confirmed and active cases of COVID-19 are falling locally, the virus remains a deadly menace.

Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS) is reporting COVID-19 related deaths last week in Bertie and Hertford counties. Both individuals were over the age of 65.

ARHS additionally reported the COVID-19 related death of a young person (between the ages of 18-to-24) last week in Pasquotank County.

None of those deaths were linked to a facility outbreak.

The COVID-19 death toll in the R-C area climbs to 193 since the pandemic began in March of last year. Those deaths have occurred in Northampton (70), Hertford (64), Bertie (46) and Gates (13).

Meanwhile, the number of active cases continues to decline. As of May 28, active cases were listed in Northampton (14), Gates (7), Bertie (3), and Hertford (1).

The FDA and the CDC have authorized the use of the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 12 and older.

If your child is between the ages of 12-17 and you would like for them to receive the Pfizer vaccine, please call your local health department to schedule an appointment:

Bertie County 252-794-5322

Gates County 252-357-1380

Hertford County 252-862-4054

The Northampton County Health Department is also seeking to provide the Pfizer vaccine to children between the ages of 12-17. They will host a vaccine clinic for that age group from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, June 10. Individuals are required to register by calling the health department at 252-534-5841 no later than June 8.

Northampton County youth receiving a vaccine on June 10 must have a parent or legal guardian accompany them the day of the clinic.

ARHS has changed over to a total “appointment only” plan to administer first and second doses of the Moderna vaccine and single doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Local residents can make a vaccine appointment by calling ARHS offices in Ahoskie (252-862-4054), Gatesville (252-357-1380), or Windsor (252-794-5322).

If you received your first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine with another provider such as Walgreens or CVS, you will need to return to that same facility for your second dose.

The Northampton County Health Department also continues to administer COVID-19 vaccines to its adult citizens. Call 252-534-5841 to schedule an appointment.