'Excruciatingly long' lines for COVID tests in Charlotte. Here's what's driving the wait

Mecklenburg County residents have reported long waits and “excruciatingly long” lines for COVID-19 tests this week.

COVID-19 tests have been on the rise for weeks locally. That trend has continued, likely prompted by people getting tests after traveling during Labor Day weekend or attending holiday gatherings, Mecklenburg County Public Health Director Gibbie Harris told the Observer Wednesday.

Across Mecklenburg, the average number of daily COVID-19 tests has increased by nearly 125% in the last three months.

And StarMed Healthcare, which has partnered with the county on administering COVID-19 vaccinations, has seen “excruciatingly long” lines at its testing sites in recent weeks, StarMed said in an email.

Read more: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/coronavirus/article254080658.html#storylink=hpdigest_business