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WINDSOR – Alarmed by a growing number of COVID-19 cases locally, Bertie County local government officials have opted to once again require the use of face coverings for those working or visiting county-operated buildings.

“The CDC [Centers for Disease Control] has identified Bertie County as an area of substantial transmission of the virus,” stated County Manager Juan Vaughan II. “We were identified as an area of moderate transmission. However, upon our change in status, the CDC recommends the use of face coverings while indoors to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others.”

He added that the new directive applies to all (vaccinated or unvaccinated). It also applies to county employees when they are indoors and leave their personal workspace.

Vaughan said the county courthouse was still requiring the use of face coverings prior to this latest decision.

Other than the courthouse, county facilities affected by this new directive include the administrative building (behind the courthouse), the Sheriff’s Office, Department of Social Services, Council of Aging, and the Board of Elections.

The directive went into effect on Monday, Aug. 9.

Vaughan said that curbside service is available for citizens who choose not to wear a mask.

A Facebook post from the county on Monday read, “We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your willingness to protect yourself and others. Please be safe!”