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COVID metrics moving in the wrong direction as at-home tests become difficult to find
The latest state data shows some metrics are the highest they've been since April.
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By Ali Ingersoll, WRAL Investigative Data Journalist
It wouldn’t be surprising if you know a friend or family member who tested positive for COVID recently.
They'd be among many people in the state, including Gov. Roy Cooper who is feeling great, according to state officials.
It's because cases are on the rise again. The latest state data shows the virus is the most prevalent it has been in wastewater since April. There are 14 million virus particles per person, the data shows. That's up 218% in just five weeks when it hit its lowest point since state health authorities began collecting this data. This metric is something health officials rely on to monitor how quickly the virus is spreading even if people are asymptomatic or not getting tested.
Also, it is becoming increasingly more challenging to find a test.
As of early June, the federal government stopped distributing them. The state has some locations available where someone can pick up free tests.
In addition to that, WRAL Data Trackers checked a dozen pharmacies around Raleigh and Durham. All but four had tests on their shelves but you could find some online. A pharmacist told WRAL Data Trackers he believes people are scooping up tests to take before going on vacations.
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