(SOURCE-NPR)
Recent reports suggest that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are contemplating changes to their current COVID-19 isolation guidelines. The proposed revisions would recommend individuals with a positive COVID test isolate until they are fever-free for 24 hours, and their symptoms are mild and showing improvement. While these alterations are yet to be officially confirmed by the CDC, it underscores the importance of staying updated on evolving COVID protocols. However, amidst the uncertainty surrounding the CDC’s COVID-19 isolation guidelines, individuals can take proactive steps to ensure they have access to free COVID-19 tests for themselves and their families.
Accessing Free COVID Tests
Since January 2022, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has intermittently offered free COVID-19 tests to the public. Presently, individuals have the opportunity to order up to eight free tests, with each order containing four tests. The program, which experienced temporary pauses in September 2022 and May 2023, has been reinstated, allowing those who haven’t previously ordered tests to avail themselves of this service. Additionally, alternative avenues exist for obtaining free COVID testing, treatment, and vaccines.
Ordering Free Tests from USPS
Securing free tests from the USPS is a straightforward process. Interested individuals can visit special.USPS.com/testkits or covidtests.gov and provide their contact and shipping information. Importantly, no financial details are required, as both the tests and shipping are provided free of charge. Orders typically arrive within one to three days after shipping. Moreover, individuals without internet access can simply call 800-232-0233 to place their orders, ensuring accessibility for all members of the community.
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Other Free Testing Options
Beyond the USPS initiative, individuals can explore various other free COVID-19 testing options available nationwide. HRSA health centers, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, offer free COVID-19 testing across the United States. These health centers can be easily located using HRSA’s online locator tool. Once accessed, individuals can select their preferred language for receiving results and enter their location into the search bar to identify nearby testing facilities. This locator tool allows users to expand their search radius to discover all available testing options within their vicinity.
Furthermore, Test to Treat locations provide an additional avenue for free COVID testing and treatment. This federally funded healthcare initiative offers more accessible COVID-19 care, allowing individuals to receive both testing and necessary treatment for infections. Similar to HRSA health centers, Test to Treat centers can be located using an online locator tool. By entering their location into the search bar, individuals can identify nearby Test to Treat centers and access comprehensive COVID care. Additionally, the tool provides detailed information about each location, including available therapeutics and special instructions for testing procedures.
As the CDC considers potential revisions to its COVID-19 isolation guidelines, individuals can take proactive steps to ensure access to free COVID-19 testing. The USPS program offers a convenient and accessible way to obtain testing kits, while alternative options such as HRSA health centers and Test to Treat locations provide additional avenues for testing and treatment. By staying informed and utilizing available resources, individuals can navigate the evolving landscape of COVID-19 protocols and prioritize the health and safety of themselves and their communities.
