The Biden Administration Resumes Free COVID Tests

The Biden administration has announced that it will once again offer free at-home COVID-19 tests to American households, starting in late September. This move comes as the COVID-19 virus has seen a resurgence in the U.S. during the summer months.

• The program will allow Americans to request four free tests through the website COVIDtests.gov.
• The tests can detect the current circulating COVID variants, which are mostly descendants of the omicron variant JN.1.
• This marks the seventh time the Biden administration has offered free COVID tests since 2021.

The Resurgence of COVID-19

The government's decision to relaunch the free COVID tests program is in response to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases across the United States.

• Wastewater data from the CDC shows a "high" or "very high" level of COVID-19 detection in almost every U.S. state.
• The administration aims to provide Americans with access to free COVID-19 tests as they gather indoors with loved ones during the fall and winter holiday season.

COVID-19 Testing and the Public Health Emergency

The government's program has provided over 1.8 billion free over-the-counter COVID tests to Americans since its inception in 2021.

• The program was implemented during the COVID-19 public health emergency, which ended in May 2023.
• Since the end of the public health emergency, lab PCR tests, the traditional method of COVID detection, have become more expensive and less accessible for some Americans.

Free COVID-19 Tests: Access and Availability

The free COVID-19 tests will be available to all Americans, offering a cost-effective way to monitor their health and prevent the spread of the virus.

• Individuals can request their four free COVID-19 tests through the website COVIDtests.gov.
• Certain local health clinics and community sites may also offer free at-home COVID-19 tests.

COVID-19 Vaccination

The Biden administration is also encouraging Americans to get updated COVID-19 vaccinations, which are now available nationwide.

• Pfizer and Moderna have developed updated COVID-19 vaccines that target a JN.1 offshoot called KP.2.
• These vaccines were approved by the FDA on August 22, 2024, and are now available at pharmacies, health clinics, and other locations.
• Vaccination remains a crucial tool in protecting individuals and communities from severe COVID-19 illness.

The Importance of COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination

Testing and vaccination are essential tools in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and protecting public health.

• Regular COVID-19 testing helps identify infected individuals, allowing for early intervention and isolation to prevent further transmission.
• COVID-19 vaccines provide significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
• The combination of testing and vaccination offers a comprehensive approach to managing the COVID-19 pandemic and protecting individuals and communities.

Stay Informed and Take Action

It's important to stay informed about the latest developments in the COVID-19 pandemic, including updated vaccination recommendations and testing guidance.

• The CDC website is a valuable resource for information on COVID-19, including testing, vaccination, and prevention strategies.
• Individuals should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized guidance on COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and other health concerns.