The U.S. government has announced that Americans can now order up to four free COVID-19 tests online for home delivery once again. This initiative is open to anyone who did not order a batch of tests in the previous round, and it comes just in time for the winter holiday season, when cases typically surge. Starting Monday, individuals can secure up to eight tests from covidtests.gov, with delivery provided by the U.S. Postal Service at no charge.
This move is significant as it follows the time when insurers are no longer required to cover the cost of at-home tests, which typically costs around $11 out of pocket. Furthermore, in September the Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting the XBB.1.5 descendant of the omicron variant, in an effort to enhance protection during the winter months. Vaccinations are recommended for everyone age 6 months or older, but their uptake has been slow despite U.S taxpayers investing billions of dollars in the development of COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and treatments over the past three years, underscoring the government’s commitment to combatting the pandemic.
The release of free COVID-19 tests is designed to help people prepare for potential increases in virus transmission during flu season and some areas of the country experiencing a spike in RSV cases. Additionally, federal health officials are noting that immunity from previous vaccinations and infections plays a crucial role in helping to limit case counts.
In conclusion, this move by the U.S government provides Americans with an opportunity to access free COVID-19 tests at home delivery just as we enter into winter holiday season where cases usually surge; it also shows continued commitment towards combating this pandemic through investments on testing, vaccines and treatments development and distribution across billions of dollars over past three years; ultimately it encourages people to take preventive measures while enjoying their festive period with peace of mind knowing they have access to these resources if needed