DURHAM, N.C. — Rising COVID-19 cases have prompted city leaders to add two new testing sites as early as next week.

What You Need To Know

Since December 26, more than 16,000 COVID-19 tests have been administered in Durham County

In January 2022 there were almost 6,000 cases. City officials say this is directly related to the omicron variant and holiday activities

Health officials continue to encourage vaccinations and booster shots ​as well as the 3 W's

On Tuesday, Durham city officials held a press conference at city hall to give a COVID-19 update. Durham County Public Health Director Rod Jenkins is continuing to urge folks to get vaccinated and boosted as their best protection against the COVID-19 virus. He's also recommending the same safety measures: social distancing, wearing a mask and washing your hands.

“You should avoid indoor gatherings with people who do not live with you. Outdoor activities are safe," Jenkins said. "If you were gathering indoors of people who do not live with you, you need to wear a mask. Wear a mask in public indoor settings regardless of your vaccinations status.” 

In December, more than 16,000 people got tested. In an effort to help, city officials say they plan to open two new testing sites in Durham County early next week. So far, this month there have been 5,993 positive COVID-19 cases in Durham County. 

"Hospitalizations have increased with this new variant of COVID and sadly 282 people have lost their lives due to COVID," Jenkins said. "Hospitalizations have increased with this new variant of COVID and sadly 282 people have lost their lives due to COVID," Jenkins said. "I'd be remiss if I didn't say most of the hospitalizations are attributed to unvaccinated individuals."

The surge in numbers is also causing stress for Durham businesses. Motorco Music Hall has temporarily closed after some of its employees tested positive for COVID-19. All of its employees are fully vaccinated, but staff are seeing some breakthrough cases.

"All of them are asymptomatic, let me be clear," Motorco co-owner, Josh Wittman said. "We've invested in tests for everybody, because we wanted to make sure that everybody produces a negative test before we reopen, which should be this weekend."

COVID-19 concerns have also caused some of Motorco musical guests to cancel. Wittman says it's impacting many local music venues.

"Cat's Cradle, Pinhook, Haw River Ballroom ... we're all experiencing the same sort of schedule adjustments, cancellations, and that's only for U.S.-based artists. We have no idea what's going to happen with European-based artists," Wittman said. "It's just going to continue to keep the industry at a very very difficult and confusing time. But we will get through it, and we will be stronger, and we will still be bringing great shows to Durham."​

Vaccines are required for Motorco staff and anyone who comes to or performs at its venue. All attendees are required to show proof of vaccination and wear a face covering inside.