12/13/2020
City of New Bern to Host Free COVID-19 Testing Events
Monday, December 7, 2020: 11am-3pm at Lawson Creek Park, 1309 Country Club Road
Monday, December 14, 2020: 11am-3pm at West New Bern Recreation Center, 1225 Pinetree Drive
Wednesday, December 16, 2020: 11am-3pm at Henderson Park, 901 Chapman Street
Thanks to state and federal funding there is no cost to have a COVID-19 test. The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS) has partnered with the North Carolina Community Health Center Association to provide COVID-19 testing in communities where it is most needed. Greene County Health Care, Inc. (GCHC) is a member of the NC Community Health Center Association and they will facilitate and administer the COVID tests at all three New Bern sites.
GCHC testing technicians will use polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, test kits to swab nasal passages. Participants will not need to get out of their cars; however, walk-up testing is also available for pedestrians. PCR tests detect the presence of the virus's genetic material and are known to be highly accurate for positive cases. GCHC will secure collection devices and coordinate with a lab for testing. It could take several days up to a week to receive results.
Participants who test positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by the Craven County Health Department and given further instructions. People should be sure to answer the call when the health department’s COVID-19 team reaches out. They will get a phone call from either “Craven County Offices” on their Caller ID or the phone number (844)628-7223. Participants who test negative will be contacted by Greene County Health Care, Inc.
The NC Department of Health & Human Services strongly advises North Carolinians to stay safe and get tested for COVID-19, especially with the holiday season upon us and the many situations in which we may be around other people, such as holiday gatherings, shopping, travel, etc. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, were exposed to someone with COVID-19, or you suspect you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should stay home and avoid others (including those in your household) until you receive your test results. North Carolinians are reminded to follow the three W’s to reduce COVID exposure and transmission: Wear a mask; Wait 6 feet apart and avoid close contact; and Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
Masks are mandatory at all three testing events. There will be masks available on site. Pedestrians are reminded to remain at least 6 feet apart while waiting in line.
