Press Releases

NCDHHS Announces Limited Vaccines Available in NC at Several Local Health Departments for People Exposed to Monkeypox

The federal government has allocated North Carolina 444 doses of Jynneos, a vaccine that can prevent illness or lead to less severe symptoms if given within two weeks after someone is exposed to monkeypox. Those doses have been allocated to seven local health departments to ensure access across the state. As additional doses become available, more locations will be added.

NCDHHS Invests More in At-Home COVID-19 Testing Strategy, Reinforces Surge Capacity

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is doubling down on at-home testing — establishing Community Access Points in all counties to provide free and easy COVID-19 tests for home use. Starting July 1, people will be able to find home tests at covid19.ncdhhs.gov/FindTests. 

Julian F. Keith ADATC Expanding Outpatient Services to Strengthen Local Response to Opioid Epidemic

People combatting opioid use disorder in Western North Carolina are gaining expanded access to lifesaving outpatient services. Beginning July 1, Julian F. Keith Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center will add additional services to its existing outpatient program. With financial support from and a partnership with Dogwood Health Trust, many individuals who receive inpatient treatment will now gain access to effective, evidence-based Medication Assisted Treatment, housing assistance and outpatient treatment and support services.

NCDHHS to Host Livestream Fireside Chat and Tele-Town Hall on COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Under 5 on June 28

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Tuesday, June 28, 6–7 p.m., to discuss COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 years of age.

NCDHHS Encourages Screening and Testing During National HIV Testing Day

At the end of 2021, an estimated 4,000 people were living with HIV in North Carolina and unaware of their HIV+ status. Getting tested routinely and knowing their status means people can get treatment quicker.
 

NC Officials Identify First Case of Monkeypox in State

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reporting the first case of monkeypox virus infection in a North Carolina resident, identified by testing at the State Laboratory of Public Health. Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious, viral illness that typically involves flu-like symptoms, swelling of the lymph nodes and a rash that includes bumps that are initially filled with fluid before scabbing over. Illness could be confused with a sexually transmitted infection like syphilis or herpes, or with varicella zoster virus (chickenpox). Most infections last two to four weeks. 

North Carolina to Help 975,000 Kids Access Food During Summer 2022

Eligible North Carolina children will receive additional benefits over the summer to ensure they have access to nutritious food. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recently received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue the Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer food assistance program through Summer 2022.

NCDHHS to Host Livestream Cafecito and Tele-Town Hall on COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Under 5 on June 23

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live Cafecito and Spanish-language tele-town hall on Thursday from 7 to 8 p.m. to discuss COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 years of age.

Vaccines for Children Ages 6 Months to Under 5 Years Will Be Available June 20

Children ages 6 months and older can now receive a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all children who are eligible receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is available in North Carolina following the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) emergency use authorization and the CDC’s recommendation.

NCDHHS Preparing for Rollout of Vaccines to Children Under 5

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is preparing for COVID-19 vaccine distribution for children under 5 years old and to ensure families across the state have the information they need to access vaccines for their young children. Children are vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus just like everyone else.