Buzz
For those feeling nostalgic for the days when you could grab a pack of four or eight free COVID tests from the government, we’ve got some good news: the free COVID test program, which was paused in August, has returned for a limited time. This couldn’t have come at a better moment, with seasonal illnesses on the rise and COVID still hanging around, not to mention the recent recall of several at-home tests for inaccuracies. (I know, this might sound like a lackluster holiday special, but that seems to be the tone of our national health strategy these days.)
You can now place your order at Covidtests.gov—I just did it this morning. Each household is eligible for one package containing four individual tests. Shipments will begin the week of Dec. 19.
If you're having trouble with the website or need additional assistance, you can also order tests by calling 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) between 8 a.m. and midnight every day. The service is available in English, Spanish, and 150 other languages.
The website also points out that if you're ordering more tests due to your old ones expiring, those expiration dates may have been extended. You can check your test's updated expiration date here.
As mentioned, COVID cases are once again rising, and the CDC has advised that people should probably wear masks again in areas like New York City and Los Angeles, where COVID, flu, and RSV are all spreading rapidly. The White House has stated that the free tests are part of a winter preparedness plan. (This plan feels very much like 'we're doing what we can with limited resources,' including a suggestion for governors to set up more pop-up vaccine clinics.)
There's currently no news on whether there will be more rounds of free tests, so make sure to get yours while you can. And don’t forget to check how to store your tests properly to ensure they last as long as possible if you're not using them right away.
