The U.S. Postal Service has announced that Americans can now order an additional round of four free COVID-19 tests as health officials prepare for an expected resurgence in the virus over the coming weeks. The tests, which will be shipped for free starting the week of November 27th, can be ordered online at covid.gov/tests or through the postal service’s webpage.
Households that missed out on the first batch of free tests earlier this fall have the opportunity to order two rounds of tests from the USPS, totaling eight free rapid antigen COVID-19 tests. So far, the Department of Health and Human Services has delivered 56 million tests this season, serving approximately 14 million American households.
Federal health officials continue to stress the importance of COVID-19 testing as a preventive measure during the holiday season. Testing can help identify individuals who might be unknowingly spreading the virus and guide them in seeking appropriate medical treatment. Additionally, testing can assist in determining whether individuals should consider taking Pfizer’s Paxlovid, a drug treatment that helps prevent more severe symptoms.
The availability of free test kits comes at a time when health authorities are closely monitoring the virus’s trajectory. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported a slight increase in emergency department visits and hospitalizations nationwide. While flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases have also been rising, COVID-19 remains the leading cause of emergency department visits for viral respiratory illnesses.
It is crucial for individuals to continue practicing preventive measures such as wearing masks, getting vaccinated, and using available testing resources to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission. By staying vigilant and making informed decisions, we can all contribute to reducing the impact of the virus on our communities.
FAQ:
Q: How can I order more free COVID tests?
A: You can order the tests online at covid.gov/tests or through the U.S. Postal Service’s webpage.
Q: Can households that missed the first batch of tests order now?
A: Yes, households that did not order their first round of free tests can place two orders from the USPS, receiving a total of eight free rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.
Q: Why are health officials emphasizing COVID-19 testing?
A: Health officials stress testing as a preventive measure to identify potential spreaders and guide individuals towards appropriate treatment options like Pfizer’s Paxlovid. Testing also helps curb the transmission of the virus during the holiday season.
Q: Are COVID-19 cases rising?
A: Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates a slight increase in emergency department visits and hospitalizations related to COVID-19.