With fall around the corner and the holiday season approaching, the U.S. government is bringing back free COVID-19 tests for households across the country. These tests are crucial for keeping everyone safe, especially with new COVID variants emerging. This guide will walk you through how to get your free COVID tests in 2024 from COVIDTests.gov, who is eligible, and why they’re important.
What is COVIDTests.gov?
COVIDTests.gov is the official website where U.S. residents can order free at-home COVID-19 tests. This program is part of the government’s ongoing effort to fight COVID-19 and ensure everyone has access to testing. Since 2021, over 900 million tests have been distributed, helping to protect public health.
How Many Free Tests Can You Get?
Each household can order four free COVID-19 tests at a time. This limit is in place to make sure as many families as possible can access the tests. These tests are up to date and able to detect the current variants of the virus. They’re good to use through the end of 2024.
When Can You Order Free COVID Tests?
Starting in late September 2024, U.S. households will be able to order free tests. The exact date isn’t confirmed yet, but health officials suggest checking the website often to stay updated.
How to Order Your Free COVID Tests
Here’s how you can order your tests:
- Visit COVIDTests.gov – Head to the site when orders are open.
- Fill in Your Info – Enter your name and home address on the form.
- Submit Your Order – Each household can request four tests.
- Receive Your Tests – They will be shipped to you by the U.S. Postal Service.
Why Free COVID Tests Matter
Having access to free COVID-19 tests is important as we head into a season when respiratory illnesses are more common. Here’s why these tests are so useful:
- Catch Infections Early: Testing can spot infections before symptoms worsen, helping people take action sooner.
- Protect High-Risk Individuals: With more indoor gatherings happening in colder months, quick tests can help safeguard elderly people or those with health issues.
- Community Health: The more people who test and isolate when needed, the less the virus can spread in communities.
What About New Variants?
Health experts are keeping an eye on new COVID-19 variants like XEC, which seems to spread faster. The free tests offered through COVIDTests.gov are updated to detect these newer strains, making them a handy tool to prevent outbreaks.
How to Use Your COVID Tests
When your free tests arrive, make sure you use them correctly:
- If You Have Symptoms: If you feel symptoms like a sore throat, cough, or fever, take a test to see if you’ve got the virus.
- Before Gatherings: It’s a good idea to test yourself before attending events, especially if there are vulnerable people there.
- Retest if Needed: If your test is negative but you still have symptoms, the FDA advises testing again after a few days to be sure.
Final Thoughts
Ordering free COVID-19 tests from COVIDTests.gov is a simple and smart way to keep yourself and your family safe this fall and winter. Each household can get four free tests, and they’re designed to help keep communities safer as people gather indoors. Stay updated on when you can order, and make sure to take advantage of this resource. These free tests are a key tool in helping to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Check out COVIDTests.gov after late September 2024 to place your order for free tests!
