Thread by @JeffJacksonNC

Quick updates on #coronavirus issues in NC (3/17)

- Testing

- Containment/mitigation strategy

- Restaurants/bars

- School closure possible extension

There have been many, many reports of people in NC who should qualify for a COVID test (fever + negative flu test + cough) being denied tests.

That is being rapidly addressed in three ways.

First, *every doctor in the state* was sent notice last night about the testing criteria

Second, the state is partnering with multiple non-state vendors and health care providers to get more tests.

Third, the state COVID hotline - which many doctors have been using to learn the testing criteria - had been overwhelmed, but major capacity was just added.

As a state, we are pursuing containment + mitigation at the same time.

We know that we (like every state) are under-testing and fixing that is a major priority.

So we're ramping up testing as fast as possible while also closing schools and encouraging social distancing.

Many people are asking about the closure of bars and restaurants. On the state leaders call yesterday this was a major topic of discussion. It is being closely and actively considered.

That said, the pictures of young people crowding into bars are absurd. They should stop now.

It is also very possible that the two week school closure in NC gets extended.

Parents, teachers, and administrators should use this time to prepare for that occurring.

It may not occur, but it's likely enough to warrant your preparation.