Government allows free mail order of additional COVID-19 tests

Following a recent spike in COVID-19 cases during the summer months, Americans will soon have access to free virus test kits that can be delivered to their homes starting in late September. Through the federal program reopening, U.S. households will have the option to request up to four COVID-19 nasal swab tests via COVIDtests.gov, although an exact date for ordering has not yet been specified by the U.S. Health and Human Services agency.

These tests are capable of detecting current virus strains and are intended to be ordered in advance of the upcoming holiday season, especially as gatherings with family and friends are anticipated. Over-the-counter COVID-19 at-home tests generally carry a price tag of approximately $11, as of last year, highlighting the value of the upcoming free distribution.

Simultaneously with this initiative, the government is encouraging individuals to receive an updated COVID-19 booster shot ahead of the fall and winter seasons, when the spread of respiratory viruses typically intensifies. Recently, U.S. regulators approved an enhanced COVID-19 vaccine specifically formulated to combat the prevailing virus strains as well as those expected during the colder months.

Despite efforts to promote vaccination, there has been a decline in uptake. While a significant portion of the U.S. population possesses some level of immunity due to past infections or vaccinations, statistics reveal that less than a quarter of American adults received the COVID-19 vaccine distributed last fall.

Under the Biden administration, a substantial number of COVID-19 tests, totaling 1.8 billion, have been disseminated, with half of these being delivered to households via mail. The exact quantity of tests currently available at federal disposal remains undisclosed. Billions of dollars in taxpayer funds have been allocated for the development of COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and treatments.

Though the number of deaths and severe cases linked to COVID-19 has notably decreased since the virus first surfaced in the U.S. in 2020, recent weeks have witnessed a slight uptick in hospitalizations. The cumulative death toll attributable to the virus has surpassed 1 million Americans, underscoring the significance of continued public health initiatives.