Free at-home COVID-19 testing kits can now be delivered to all NC homes

CHARLOTTE — If you don’t want to come to a vaccination site to get a COVID-19 test, you can now do it yourself – in the privacy of your own home. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced on Wednesday that the state is expanding availability of its at-home COVID-19 test collection.

The testing kits were initially available only to people who received food assistance, or those who are disabled.

Now, the at-home testing kits are available to anyone in North Carolina older than 2 -- and the Department of Health and Human Services will even cover the costs.

The kits are offered through Labcorp and shipped to your home overnight. They contain a nasal swab, sample container and detailed instructions.

You then mail the test back to Labcorp in a prepaid envelope. Results will be available on your computer or phone within 24 to 48 hours.

The NCDHHS is still encouraging people to get vaccinated. Currently, 44% of people in North Carolina have at least one shot, while 41% are fully vaccinated.

President Joe Biden wants that number to be 70% by July 4.

Anyone 18 or older can request a test collection kit for themselves online or through several community partner organizations. Parents or guardians can request a test collection kit for those aged 2-17.

Click here to learn more about the program, view frequently asked questions and request a test kit. Supplies may be limited.

(WATCH BELOW: Behind the scenes: COVID-19 testing laboratory)