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State and federal data show COVID-19 cases are increasing across North Carolina leaving some residents wondering if and when to get a COVID-19 vaccine — and if they’re still free.
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North Carolina is one of 35 states where COVID-19 infections are growing, according to recent data from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. The state monitors wastewater for respiratory viruses, showing the levels of COVID-19 rising since the start of August.
It’s the highest the levels have been this year, according to the state data.
The federal government no longer covers the cost for free COVID-19 vaccines for everyone.
Pharmacies have begun to offer the newest COVID-19 vaccines, including at CVS and Walgreens, after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved them in late August.
The FDA approved the vaccines for all people 65 and older and for younger people with a condition that increases the chances of severely getting sick from COVID-19, according to The New York Times. Some of those conditions include asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart conditions and obesity, among others, according to the CDC.
Most private insurances still cover the COVID-19 vaccine with little-to-no cost, according to a statement sent to The News & Observer from AHIP, the trade association representing most United States health insurance providers.
“Health plans are committed to affordable access to vaccines, and AHIP member health plans will continue covering all AHIP-recommended immunizations with no cost-sharing through the end of 2027,” according to the statement.
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However, people should confirm with their individual insurance provide to be sure. The cost of the vaccines without insurance can range from $250 to $380.
People who are uninsured may be able to get free or low-cost COVID-19 vaccines from local health departments, but it depends on where people go and if vaccines are available.
In Wake County, adults and children are able to get the vaccine for free, said Leah Holdren, external communications manager for Wake County.
“We have received a small number of covid vaccines for our patients, but the state supplied vaccines will be available to order soon,” she said. “We hope to have all covid and flu (vaccines) available beginning of October.”
Children are able to get the vaccine for free in some other locations, like from Durham and Mecklenburg public health departments, but there are fees and additional costs for adults, according to county employees.
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Portions of this story were previously published in The News & Observer.