Federal Government restarts COVID-19 testing initiative.
The federal government is set to launch a new program that will distribute free COVID-19 home test kits to Americans, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra made the announcement during an event at a Washington CVS pharmacy, where he also received COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The program aims to provide Americans with the opportunity to request tests for use during the fall and winter respiratory viral season. This initiative will strengthen the nation’s production levels of domestic at-home COVID-19 rapid tests and help mitigate the spread of the virus.
Related Stories
-
Cancers Appearing in Ways Never Before Seen After COVID Vaccinations: Dr. Harvey Risch
-
Whistleblower Claims the CIA Shaped False-Origin Narrative on COVID | Truth Over News
Starting September 25, orders for the free tests can be placed at COVIDTests.gov, and they will be delivered by the United States Postal Service. The Department of Health and Human Services plans to keep the website open through the holidays and potentially longer if there is an increase in cases. The focus is on ensuring that people can take a test if they plan to visit their loved ones during Thanksgiving.
The tests are designed to detect COVID-19 variants and will include instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates. Twelve manufacturers have been awarded funding to produce 200 million over-the-counter tests for government use and to meet the demand for tests ordered online. This will help prevent supply chain issues that have caused shortages in the past.
This program follows four previous rounds where over 755 million tests were provided for free to homes nationwide. It also aims to send free COVID-19 tests to long-term care facilities, schools, low-income senior housing, and uninsured individuals.
According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospitalizations for COVID-19 have increased by about 7.7 percent across the United States. However, this figure is significantly lower than during the peak of the pandemic.
Will Mandates Return?
Wednesday’s announcement from HHS did not mention any mandates. However, there are concerns that masking or COVID-19 vaccine mandates may be reintroduced in certain settings. Some hospitals, schools, and private businesses have already made masking mandatory. For example, the Baystate Health system in Massachusetts now requires masks in patient care areas, and the University of Chicago Medical Center has implemented mask mandates for workers in direct contact with patients.
It is important to stay updated on the latest developments regarding COVID-19 and follow the guidelines provided by health authorities.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Where can individuals request free COVID-19 home test kits?
Free COVID-19 home test kits will be accepted through the program’s website, covidtest.gov. The kits will be shipped directly to individuals’ homes at no cost. The initiative aims to make testing more accessible and convenient for Americans, particularly during the upcoming fall and winter seasons when respiratory viruses tend to be more prevalent.
The distribution of free home test kits is a crucial step in the federal government’s efforts to control the spread of COVID-19. By allowing individuals to request tests for personal use, this program empowers Americans to take proactive measures in monitoring their health and the health of those around them.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra stressed the importance of testing as a tool to mitigate the spread of the virus. He highlighted that early detection through testing enables individuals to take appropriate measures to prevent further transmission and protect vulnerable populations.
This initiative also aims to strengthen the nation’s production levels of domestic at-home COVID-19 rapid tests. By increasing production and distribution, the federal government aims to ensure that an ample supply of these tests is available to meet the testing needs of the American population.
The announcement of this program follows recent concerns over the Delta variant and its potential to cause a surge in COVID-19 cases. As the nation prepares for the fall and winter seasons, there is a need for increased testing capacity to identify and isolate positive cases promptly.
By making free home test kits readily available to Americans, the federal government hopes to encourage widespread testing and early detection of COVID-19 cases. This will not only help individuals make informed decisions about their health but also contribute to overall public health efforts in controlling the spread of the virus.
The program’s website, covidtest.gov, will serve as the primary platform for individuals to request test kits. It will also provide information on how to use the kits correctly and interpret the results accurately. Additionally, the website will emphasize the importance of following appropriate public health guidelines even after testing negative.
In conclusion, the federal government’s launch of a new program to distribute free COVID-19 home test kits is a significant step towards increasing testing accessibility and mitigating the spread of the virus. By empowering individuals to take charge of their health and providing them with the necessary tools, this program aims to strengthen the nation’s testing capabilities and promote early detection and containment of COVID-19 cases. As we navigate the ongoing pandemic, widespread testing remains crucial in our collective efforts to protect public health and ensure a safe future for all Americans.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
Now loading...