Cooper Outlines COVID Relief Budget As Health Care Providers Address Vaccine Hesitancy

CHARLOTTE, NC –  North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper unveiled a robust budget and COVID relief package on Thursday. The news comes as key metrics are moving in the right direction and vaccine distribution continues to slowly pick up. 

“This virus continues to spread and it’s critical that we keep taking it seriously,” said Cooper. 

Cautious optimism from Gov. Roy Cooper today as he unveiled the state budget and COVID relief plan. 

“People need help immediately. And we have both the means and the power to give it to them,” said Cooper. 

Cooper is proposing cash infusions for rent relief, two billion dollars for schools, one time bonuses for educators, and funds to keep businesses afloat. 

“I propose we invest $37 million dollars more in emergency state funds to support small businesses with a focus on historically underutilized businesses,” said Cooper. 

On the vaccine front. 

“There is still so much demand from the current group that we are in,” said Dr. Mandy Cohen, the state health director. 

Cohen says it could be early March before they can move to phase three of vaccinations. 

“Those are folks that can’t stay home to do work. They are our teachers. Our police officers. Our firefighters,” explained Dr. Cohen.

Despite high demand, there is still hesitancy to get the vaccine, especially within minority demographics. 

Mecklenburg County and Atrium Health leaders held a town hall on Thursday night to answer questions and quell any fears people may have about reactions to the vaccine. 

“For that subset, which isn’t small, of people that have worse side effects for that second dose. Just be prepared for it. Know it’s not a bad thing. It typically resolves within 48 hours,” explained Atrium Health Dr. Katie Passaretti.

Mecklenburg county is currently booked for vaccine appointments through February 20th. More slots will open up as supply picks up.