Americans can now request additional free COVID-19 tests online for delivery to their homes.
The U.S. government is making available a second round of four at-home virus tests in anticipation of the usual increase in cases during the winter holiday season.
Those who did not previously order a set of four COVID-19 tests in September can now obtain up to eight tests starting Monday at COVIDtests.gov, with free delivery handled by the U.S. Postal Service.
The distribution of the COVID-19 tests coincides with the onset of the flu season, alongside reported spikes in RSV cases in some areas. While COVID-19 hospitalizations saw an increase earlier this fall, they have since remained consistent. Immunity from prior vaccinations and infections has contributed to keeping case numbers lower compared to previous years.
The release of the free COVID-19 nasal swab tests also precedes the first winter since insurers are no longer mandated to cover their costs. As per an analysis by the nonprofit health research organization KFF, the average out-of-pocket cost for at-home tests is currently $11.
In September, the Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID-19 vaccines to enhance protection for Americans during the winter. These shots target an omicron variant known as XBB.1.5, replacing earlier vaccines developed for the original coronavirus strain and an earlier omicron version. While the shots are recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, their uptake has been slow.
Over the past three years since the pandemic began, U.S. taxpayers have invested billions of dollars into the development of COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and treatments.
For further details, visit the wealthnationusa COVID-19 resource page.
