New data show that almost half of North Carolina's 100 counties are in the highest risk category for exposure to COVID-19, with rural areas getting hit the hardest.  

According to an interactive map released by Harvard University, eleven counties in the Triad and Northwest North Carolina are among 42 currently classified as being in the "red zone," a tipping point where health experts recommend the implementation of stay-at-home orders.

Researchers track daily new cases per 100,000 residents, measured on a seven-day rolling average.

The latest data, released on Saturday, show the problem is most severe in rural areas, including Surry and Wilkes Counties.

A new report from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services echoes that assessment. It shows that since September, new COVID-19 cases have been increasing faster in rural counties. DHHS Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen has expressed concern that some rural hospitals “are being stretched to their capacity limits.”

But urban areas are not immune, with Forsyth County ranked 12th on the Harvard survey.

According to DHHS, Forsyth has had over 11,000 of COVID-19 as of Monday, and 146 deaths.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.