SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — As the holidays creep up, demand for Covid-19 tests has increased.
There are still several sites around the Cape Fear region that offer free testing. Some sites have certain criteria for administering a free test, like requiring symptoms, while others do not.
Related: New Hanover County Covid-19 update, governor releases letter to North Carolinians [Free]
If you’re having difficulty finding a testing location, call the New Hanover County’s Covid-19 call center at 910-798-6800. You can also use the state’s search tool to find a no-cost testing site.
Use the state’s testing locator for all local testing availability, including sites that cost money.
View a list of free testing sites below. Note: All information in this article is up-to-date as of 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Free testing sites
UNCW
- Free. No criteria. Appointment necessary.
The site is closed Dec. 16 due to weather. All appointments set for Wednesday will be honored Thursday. Thursday is the last day the site will have availability between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Administered by local New Hanover County health officials, the state program has not yet been renewed or extended, according to a county spokesperson. Testing is being conducted in parking lot 1A, across from the Harold Greene Track & Field complex.
New Hanover County community outreach events:
- Free. Must have symptoms or recent exposure to a positive case.
New Hanover County has been offering select outreach events designed to provide Covid-19 tests to marginalized communities. However, if testing is available, the testing is available to anyone. The only upcoming event listed on the county’s website will take place Saturday, Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Price Cathedral A.M.E. Zion Church.
CVS
- Free. Must meet certain criteria (ex: you’ve been exposed)
CVS Pharmacy is offering free testing, with results available in three to four days. In the Wilmington area, there is no availability for Dec. 15. Select Wilmington sites have availability on Dec. 16 and the following days. Find a testing site on CVS’s website.
CommWell Health in Bolivia
- Free. No criteria.
The provider has availability beginning Tuesday.
Brunswick County Health Services in Bolivia:
- Free for the uninsured
Available only to children 17 and under. Testing is available by appointment only. Results are available in 48 to 72 hours. Call 910-253-2276 to schedule an appointment.
Know of a free testing site in the Cape Fear region not listed here? Email info@portcitydaily.com.
