U.S. Resumes Free COVID Test Program, Here’s How to Get Them

Americans will once again be able to get free at-home COVID tests.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Wednesday that it will spend $600 million to buy and offer the tests, produced by 12 domestic manufacturers, and it will begin accepting orders for those tests on Monday through covidtests.gov.

"The Biden-Harris Administration, in partnership with domestic manufacturers, has made great strides in addressing vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain by reducing our reliance on overseas manufacturing," HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said in an agency news release. "These critical investments will strengthen our nation's production levels of domestic at-home COVID-19 rapid tests and help mitigate the
spread of the virus."

Households that order will receive four free tests.

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This plan will not only get tests in the hands of people in case of another COVID surge, but it will also increase domestic manufacturing capacity, officials noted.

Manufacturers can sell tests directly to retailers, rather than the government, if there is significant demand for them, said Dawn O'Connell, assistant secretary for preparedness and response at the HHS.

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The government's investment will pay for about 200 million tests to replenish the country's stockpile, the HHS said.

Free tests have been previously offered at other times during the pandemic, including from early 2022 through summer of that year and from late 2022 until the spring of 2023.

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The government is also encouraging Americans to get the new COVID boosters.

Becerra received his COVID and flu shots publicly on Wednesday, the New York Times reported.

"I feel comfortable, having gotten the shots, that I could hug and kiss my mother and not be responsible for getting her sick," Becerra said, adding that, "No one is safe until everyone is safe."

Becerra's mom is about to turn 90.

All Americans starting as young as six months old should get at least one dose of the new boosters from Pfizer or Moderna, according to the the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

COVID hospitalizations have been increasing, but are low compared to some earlier parts of the pandemic, the Times reported.

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Tips for taking at-home COVID tests

Taking at-home COVID-19 tests can be a convenient way to monitor your health and detect potential infections. Here are some tips for taking at-home COVID-19 tests effectively and accurately:

1. Read the Instructions Thoroughly:
   • Before you begin, carefully read the instructions provided with the test kit. Each brand may have specific procedures and requirements.
2. Gather Supplies:
   • Ensure you have all the necessary supplies ready, including the test kit components, a timer, tissues, and hand sanitizer.
3. Choose the Right Time:
   • Take the test at the appropriate time. For some tests, it's recommended to wait a specific number of days after exposure or when you develop symptoms. Follow the guidelines provided.
4. Wash Your Hands:
   • Start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean towel.
5. Create a Clean Testing Area:
   • Find a clean, well-lit area to perform the test. Avoid areas with strong airflow, as this can interfere with the test result.
6. Follow Swabbing Instructions:
   • Use the provided swab to collect the sample as per the instructions. This may involve swabbing the back of your throat and/or your nostrils. Be gentle but thorough.
7. Handle the Swab Carefully:
   • Be cautious not to touch the swab's tip with your fingers or any other surfaces to prevent contamination.
8. Insert the Swab:
   • Place the swab into the tube or container provided. Seal it securely according to the instructions.
9. Set a Timer:
   • Use a timer or your phone to track the recommended incubation time. Do not read the result before the specified time has passed.
10. Wait Patiently:
    • While waiting for the test results, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking to prevent contamination.
11. Read and Interpret the Result:
    • Follow the instructions to interpret the result correctly. Typically, most tests will display results as positive, negative, or invalid. Take a clear photo of the result for documentation if needed.
12. Dispose of Materials Safely:
    • Dispose of all test materials as per the manufacturer's instructions and local regulations. This may involve sealing them in a plastic bag and discarding them in a designated waste bin.
13. Report Results:
    • If your test result is positive, it's crucial to report it to local health authorities for contact tracing and guidance. Follow their instructions for isolation and further testing.
14. Follow Up with Healthcare Providers:
    • If you test positive, or if you have symptoms and test negative, consider contacting a healthcare provider for further guidance and potential confirmatory testing.
15. Maintain Hygiene:
    • After testing, wash your hands thoroughly and clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with the test kit.