The Biden administration on Thursday announced its plans to stay ahead of an increase in COVID-19 cases this winter making some free COVID-19 tests available to U.S. households again.
Three months after the White House administration paused the program, each U.S. household will again be able to get four free rapid virus tests through covidtests.gov.
“While COVID-19 is not the disruptive force it once was, the virus continues to evolve, and cases are on the rise again as families are spending more time indoors and gathering for the holidays,” said the White House administration in a press release.
To order COVID-19 tests, click here
Those with insurance through an employer, the Marketplace, Medicare, or Medicaid, will be eligible for 9 at-home tests each month for each person covered by your insurance.
In addition to the free tests, the Winter Preparedness Plan also includes making vaccinations and treatments readily available to all Americans as cases rise, preparing personnel and resources, readying clinical personnel for deployment as needed to support jurisdictions, and focusing on protecting the highest-risk Americans.
To read the full press release, click here
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is continuing to recommend isolation for at least five days if you test positive. Additionally, the CDC is recommending the following:
- Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public.
- Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask. For travel guidance, see CDC’s Travel webpage.
- Do not travel.
- Stay home and separate from others as much as possible.
- Use a separate bathroom, if possible.
- Take steps to improve ventilation at home, if possible.
- Don’t share personal household items, like cups, towels, and utensils.
- Monitor your symptoms. If you have an emergency warning sign (like trouble breathing), seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Learn more about what to do if you have COVID-19.
