Joy Emeh
Updated on: October 14, 2024 12:54 pm GMT
As autumn arrives and the holiday season approaches, free at-home COVID-19 tests are making a comeback in the United States. With the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, the federal government is offering households a chance to stock up on rapid tests at no cost. This program aims to ensure that Americans have easy access to testing as respiratory virus season begins.
How to Order Your Free COVID-19 Tests
Starting at the end of September 2024, every U.S. household can order four free at-home COVID-19 tests through COVIDTests.gov. Here’s how the process works:
- Eligibility: Every household qualifies for the free tests.
- Ordering Process: Once the site is active, simply enter your name and residential address. The tests will be sent directly to your home by the U.S. Postal Service, free of charge.
- Available Tests: The program will offer a mixture of standard nasal swab tests and more accessible test options, although the specific brands will not be disclosed.
This distribution marks the seventh round of free test kits since the program started, with the federal government having supplied over 900 million kits since the pandemic began.
Why COVID-19 Testing Remains Important
Even though there has been a decline in weekly COVID-19 test positivity since mid-August, health officials emphasize the need for continued vigilance. Testing helps residents understand whether they have the virus, enabling them to take necessary precautions—for themselves and for others—especially ahead of family gatherings during the holidays.
“COVID-19 testing can help you know if you have COVID-19 so you can decide what to do next, like getting treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness and taking steps to lower your chances of spreading the virus to others,” said the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Health Experts Weigh In
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Mandy Cohen noted the importance of using available tools, such as vaccines and testing, to combat respiratory illnesses this winter. She urged everyone to stay informed and act responsibly as we head into the colder months.
The Importance of Using Updated Tests
The free tests offered later this month are designed to detect the currently circulating variants of COVID-19. It’s essential to note that while these tests can confirm the presence of the virus, they will not specify which variant you may have.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended expiration dates on certain at-home test kits. However, if your test kit is past its expiration, it’s recommended not to use it, as the materials may degrade over time, leading to inaccurate results. Fortunately, the new tests from the upcoming distribution are assured to be effective at least through the end of the year.
Alternative Options for Immediate Testing
While the free tests may take a few weeks to arrive, options are available if you need immediate testing:
- Retail Availability: At-home test kits are widely sold at pharmacies, big-box stores, and online retailers.
- Insurance Coverage: Medicare and some private insurers cover the costs of tests bought over-the-counter.
- Free Testing Sites: If you don’t have health insurance and have been exposed to COVID-19 or show symptoms, you can visit a federal Increasing Community Access to Testing location.
Pricing for at-home tests varies widely. For example:
- A single FlowFlex test from CVS costs $9.99.
- A four-pack of BinaxNOW tests is priced at $34.99.
- If purchased through Amazon, a five-pack of iHealth tests can range around $44.95.
The Future of COVID-19 Testing
As we move forward, accessing these free tests will play a critical role in managing the spread of COVID-19. “The best plan going into this winter is for everyone to remain vigilant,” cautioned Dr. Cohen.
The CDC currently recommends everyone aged six months and older receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine to stay protected this season. Updated vaccines, including options from Moderna and Pfizer that address specific variants, are now available at many pharmacies across the U.S.
The government is making it easier for everyone to get tested for COVID-19, which means we need to stay careful this winter. Be sure to check for updates on how to order your free test kits and learn about vaccination options. This way, we can all have a safe and happy holiday season!
