The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) plans to offer free COVID-19 tests to assist individuals who have been burdened with the cost of purchasing test kits. This initiative comes as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise during the summer months.
Starting from September 25, households can request up to four rapid tests per household through the website COVID.org. These tests will remain valid until the end of 2023. In addition, the HHS has provided a list of tests that have extended expiration dates, allowing individuals to determine if their existing tests are still usable.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 cases have been on the uptick since July, just two months after the conclusion of the public health emergency in May.
Dawn O’Connell, the assistant secretary of preparedness and response for the HHS, highlighted the expectation of increased virus circulation and spreading, as well as a surge in cases during the fall and winter seasons. In an effort to equip the American people with the necessary tools, the HHS has taken steps to ensure free access to COVID-19 tests.
Hospitals have witnessed a 7.7% rise in COVID-19-related admissions and a 4.3% increase in deaths. To combat the reemergence of the virus, the HHS has recommenced the distribution of free tests, after temporarily halting the program in May.
An investment of $600 million has been allocated towards the creation and distribution of 200 million rapid home tests. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized that these investments will enhance the production of domestic at-home COVID-19 rapid tests, ultimately aiding in the containment of the virus.
The HHS has already provided over 755 million tests to approximately two-thirds of households across the United States, including 310 million homes within underserved communities. Individuals can find low-cost or free COVID-19 tests at outreach centers near them by visiting the HRSA health center, Test to Treat, or an ICATT location.
Furthermore, the CDC suggests receiving a booster shot every six months to further combat the spread of the virus.
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