COVID-19 tests are now accessible for ordering at no cost through the United States government
COVID-19 tests are now accessible for ordering at no cost through the United States Government
Free COVID-19 tests are now up for grabs, courtesy of the US government. Starting this Monday, every household in the United States can request up to four tests through Covidtests.gov. If you don’t have internet access, worry not – simply dial 1-800-232-0233 (or TTY 1-888-720-7489) to place your order.
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These rapid COVID-19 tests are designed for use at home, and you can use them whether you have symptoms or not. Plus, they’re good to go until the end of the year. Some test labels might display expiration dates, but the US Food and Drug Administration has extended their validity.
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In the past, the US government sent out over 755 million free COVID-19 tests to those who requested them, but the program was halted in May. Since then, COVID-19 hospitalizations have surged in the United States, with weekly admissions now three times higher than two months ago.
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The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that you should take the test if you experience any COVID-19-like symptoms, such as a sore throat, runny nose, loss of smell or taste, or a fever. Testing before attending large gatherings, like concerts or conferences, especially if you’re not fully vaccinated, is also a wise move.
Additionally, if you’ve been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, it’s a good idea to test at least five days after exposure, even if you’re symptom-free. If your first test is negative, it’s recommended to test again 48 hours later.
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The Biden administration has pledged to continue providing additional tests to those without insurance through various community outreach programs. You can find more information about these programs offering free tests on HRSA health center websites, Test to Treat sites, or ICATT locations.
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As the testing program reopens, the Biden administration is also gearing up to promote flu, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines, with a particular focus on high-risk populations like seniors and young children. Stay tuned for more information on vaccine initiatives.
