The Lincoln County Health Department continues to monitor the spread of COVID-19. 

The following counts are based on data reported to the Lincoln County Health Department as of today: 79 total people have been tested for COVID-19, of those there is 1 positive case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County, 45 other people have tested negative for COVID-19, and 33 others have been tested and are considered persons under investigation (PUI). 

A PUI is a person who was tested based on COVID-19 testing criteria and is self-isolating until test results are received. A positive case is a person who tested positive in a commercial, state, or CDC lab. A negative case is a person that is no longer considered a PUI because they tested negative in a commercial or state lab for COVID-19. County and City Officials and organizations are working together to keep citizens and residents informed and updated. 

Lincoln County is still considered a low risk community at this time. Lincoln County is prepared and ready to respond should COVID-19 illness be confirmed in the community. The Lincoln County Health Department wants to remind residents to stay home if sick and call ahead to your medical provider if you have flu-like symptoms. Only consider the emergency department in a true emergency to reduce the burden during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We have posted current information and recommendations to our website at lincolncounty.org and will provide future updates and instructions as they become available. Lincoln County residents are urged to exercise judgment and take the following precautions as appropriate: 

• Monitor information provided by the CDC and NCDHHS in addition to any official State or County communications.
• Practice good hygiene and take everyday preventive actions: 
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time. 
  •  Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Avoid close contact with people who are ill. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. 
  • Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. 
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
• Older people and people with severe chronic conditions (heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease) should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing a more serious COVID-19 illness.
• Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you feel like you are developing symptoms, call your doctor or medical provider. 

For questions or concerns regarding your risk for COVID-19, use the following numbers: 

• Lincoln County Health Department triage line, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm: 704- 736-8510.
• Atrium Health triage line, 24/7: 704-512-5700 
• Novant Health triage line, 24/7: 877-499-1697 
• For after-hour concerns or general questions please dial 211 for assistance or call the 24/7 Coronavirus Helpline at 1-866-462-3821. 

Media Release