The latest update from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services county alert map shows 61 of the state's counties in red for critical community spread of COVID-19. Thirty-three counties are in orange and 6 are in yellow. "North Carolinians are working hard to protect one another and we're seeing the result," Dr. Mandy Cohen said during a Feb. 4 briefing. Although Gov. Roy Cooper echoed her optimism, he added that cases and deaths are still to high, referencing the Feb. 3 record for most deaths recorded in a single day. "There are encouraging signs but we know this pandemic has tested us and we must stay vigilant," said Cooper. "We can and will turn the corner on this pandemic and our communities can be even stronger than before."