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The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in North Carolina continued to rise from 478 Tuesday at 5 p.m. to 577 on Wednesday at 5 p.m. There have been two deaths in the state attributed to the virus, Gov. Roy Cooper announced Wednesday.

The number of confirmed cases in the U.S. went from 51,542 cases Tuesday to 62,873 cases on Wednesday, however there are likely many more as those exhibiting symptoms are encouraged to stay home; 894 deaths are attributed to the virus nationwide. Five percent of all active cases are considered serious, requiring hospitalization — down from 19% three weeks ago, according to Beaufort County’s Office of Emergency Services.

Eastern North Carolina counties with current cases include: Bertie (3), Beaufort (3), Brunswick (10), Carteret (5), Camden (1), Chowan (1), Craven (3), Dare (1), Duplin (1), Hertford (1), Lenoir (1), New Hanover (10), Northampton (1), Onslow (4), Pasquotank (1), Pitt (6), Sampson (1), Wayne (2) and Wilson (6). Durham (74), Mecklenburg (170) and Wake (73) counties have the most cases. These persons continue to be monitored by local health department personnel.

On Tuesday, Beaufort County confirmed two cases; on Wednesday, a third case was confirmed in the county. There is no shelter in place order in Beaufort County, however, the Wednesday update from Beaufort County task force reads:

“Beaufort County and its municipalities are embracing the spirit of ‘Shelter in Place’ and encouraging all our citizens to limit any unnecessary movements beyond your homes. Continue to follow current CDC, NCDHHS and local guidance by:

• Limiting your travel to grocery stores, etc. to essential trips only.
• Not congregating in social settings.
• Continue to practice social distancing by maintaining 6 feet of space between yourself and others.
• Avoid using public amenities such as playground equipment, etc.”