This is the first weekend where Gov. Roy Cooper’s “Stay-At-Home” executive order will be in effect.  During a press conference Friday afternoon, Cooper urged North Carolina residents to heed the order.  The governor also implored citizens continue practicing social distancing and avoid large gatherings to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Gov. Cooper suggested retailers work to help customers practice safe social distancing.  Cooper also said too many people are not following the suggested social distancing guidelines.

Facing a shortfall in needed medical supplies across the state, Gov. Cooper urged manufacturers to produce masks, gloves, gowns, and more.

According to Friday’s figures from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, there are nearly 2,100 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state.  19 people have died from the virus and 259 patients remain hospitalized with the disease.

Locally, Wayne County is reporting 11 cases of COVID-19 in the county as of Friday afternoon.