NC DHHS Covid-19 Update

Covid-19 treatments are available and can lower your risk of hospitalization or death. Vaccines continue to offer the best protection against Covid-19.

vaccinated woman thumbs up
Covid-19 vaccines and boosters are available at the Buncombe County Health Department Immunization Clinic.

The NC Department of Health and Human services notes that there has been a decrease in wastewater monitoring and fewer emergency room visits for Covid-19 symptoms from last week, but there has simultaneously been an increase in reported cases and hospital admissions compared to the period June 29-July 5.

However, as of July 6, 2022, 77% of North Carolina’s adult population vaccinated with at least one dose of Covid-19 vaccines, and 58% had received at least one booster shot as well. Among children and teens (ages 6 months to 17 years) 29% had been vaccinated with at least one dose. More details about vaccination rates and states can be found at covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.

Testing Available at No Cost

It has never been easier or faster to get tested. This matters, as the state is facing a high level of community risk in four counties, and low or medium levels of community risk in the other 96 counties. Most sequenced cases are the current variant, Omicron BA.2.12.1

If you are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19, have been in close contact with someone with Covid-19, or think you may have Covid-19, you should get tested. To find a testing site near you, visit ncdhhs.gov/GetTested. For an up-to-date list of no-cost community testing events, visit the No-Cost Testing Events webpage.

Additionally, all North Carolinians can request a free at-home Covid-19 testing kit. The state DHHS has established Community Access Points in all counties to provide free and easy Covid-19 tests for home use. As of July 1, locations for picking up home tests are listed at covid19.ncdhhs.gov/FindTests.

Vaccination is Also Free

In addition to testing, free Covid-19 vaccination is available to all who want it, including children aged six months and older. Visit MySpot.nc.gov to find a location. To strengthen and extend protections against Covid-19, boosters are also available to all North Carolinians age 5 and older. If you are eligible, you should get a booster now.

To learn more about boosters and to find a spot to take your shot, or for more information on Covid-19 vaccines, visit YourSpotYourShot.nc.gov or call the Covid-19 Vaccine Help Center for free at (888) 675-4567.

Why Testing and Vaccinations are Important

Covid-19 treatments are available and can lower your risk of hospitalization or death. But treatments must be given as soon as you feel sick and can only be prescribed by a medical professional. Have symptoms? Don’t wait:

  •   Find a test-to-treat location to get treatment started a.s.a.p.
  •   Talk to your doctor about treatment
  •   Or call (888) 675-4567. The call center can help if you do not have a health care provider.

Treatments are not a substitute for vaccination. Vaccines continue to offer the best protection against Covid-19.

For more information and updates on Covid-19, visit covid19.ncdhhs.gov and nc.gov/covid19. Those with Covid-19 vaccine questions can call the Covid-19 Vaccine Help Center at (888) 675-4567, or visit YourSpotYourShot.nc.gov.