The free COVID-19 tests that the U.S. government recently rolled out could expire soon, but there is a reason behind it. Two weeks ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that households across the country could order up to four COVID-19 tests per family while supplies last. However, some recipients might notice the tests have close expiration dates. told by USA Today.
Zachary Dembner, a spokesperson for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), clarified why the expiration dates seem near. “Tests sent out through COVIDTests.gov will have at least two months before they expire and are intended for near-term use during the holiday season,” Dembner told USA Today. He also emphasized that “many COVID-19 tests have extended expiration dates beyond what is printed on the box, and consumers should verify their test’s expiration on the FDA website.”
The push for free tests comes at a critical time, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise. With more frequent family gatherings during the holiday season, the government is urging people to take advantage of the free tests to ensure a safer environment.
Dembner added that ASPR’s broader goal is to provide COVID-19 tests to everyone in the country. “In addition to COVIDTests.gov, ASPR distributes over 5 million tests per week directly to underserved and uninsured populations – including long-term care facilities, food banks, and health centers,” he said.
As of October 2, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) had shipped over 12 million COVID-19 tests, with six million already delivered. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy expressed pride in USPS’s involvement, stating, “The distribution of these at-home test kits is a vital public health initiative from the Department of Health and Human Services. We are proud to continue our partnership in ensuring that every household has access to the resources they need to stay safe and healthy.”
For those wondering how long these free tests will be available, HHS confirmed they are accessible through the end of the year. Shipments began on September 30, and households can still order them via COVIDTest.gov or special.usps.com/testkits. report from CBS News.
For those in immediate need of a test, HHS advises checking local pharmacies for availability. Low-cost or no-cost testing options are also available for uninsured individuals through HRSA-funded health centers.
HHS also highlighted that the tests are becoming “more accessible” for people with disabilities, with improvements in test technology to accommodate those with limited hand mobility and low vision. Additionally, the agency continues distributing tests to marginalized and underserved communities, with more than one billion tests provided through its community access program to date.
If you test positive, the tests can detect the current dominant COVID-19 variants, and the results typically come within 30 minutes. Individuals who test positive should follow CDC guidelines to prevent further spread. Keep in mind that negative results may not rule out infection, especially if symptoms are present, so repeat testing is recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
