However, all of North Carolina is listed as an area of high community transmission, according to the CDC. All surrounding states are also high-transmission areas. Mask-wearing indoors is highly recommended. Masks are required in Haywood County facilities, including the libraries, for employees and the public. 

This week 76.1 percent of new COVID cases were unvaccinated. Nearly all of those who require hospitalization are unvaccinated. 

Haywood County Health & Human Services are now offering COVID-19 booster shot appointments for those who have completed the primary doses of Pfizer-BioNTech more than six months ago and who are in a high-risk category. 

“This week we have seen a decline in the number of positive cases, but we are not in the clear. Our hope is that the numbers continue to fall as we head into cooler weather and fall activities. With fall festivals happening in the area and fall break quickly approaching, I want to encourage you to remain vigilant about safety measures to protect yourself, your family, and your community,” said Haywood County Public Health Director Sarah Henderson.