#17,771
Two months ago the HHS re-started their at-home COVID test kit giveaway program (see Free COVID Tests: Online Ordering Now Available) which offered 4 kits per household. This week they have authorized a second round of 4 kits (or 8 kits to households that did not order last September).
While many of those tests were marked with an `expired' use-by date, those tests have received an extension by the FDA through at least the end of the year. (note: the ones I received were extended to 1/30/24).
Once again, it appears the tests being offered may have a relatively short shelf life. The ordering site reminds people:
According to last September's announcement, an additional 200 million test kits have been ordered, in the event they will be needed in 2024.Before You Throw Out "Expired" Tests: Check FDA's website to see if your COVID-19 tests' expiration dates have been extended.
The HHS ordering site reminds everyone:
Take an at-home test:
- If you begin having COVID-19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell, or
- At least 5 days after you come into close contact with someone with COVID-19, or
- When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines
What if you test Positive?
A positive at-home test result means that the test found the virus, and you very likely have COVID-19.
If you test positive, follow the latest CDC guidance for isolation.
Treatments for COVID-19 are now widely available. If you test positive and are at high risk for severe COVID-19 (age 50 and over or you have a weakened immune system or other health conditions), talk to a doctor as soon as possible about available treatment options.
You can get tested and treated at many pharmacy-based locations. Find the Test-to-Treat clinic nearest you.
What if you test Negative?
A negative at-home test result means that the test did not find the virus, and you may have a lower risk of spreading COVID-19 to others. Check your test’s instructions for specific next steps. If you test negative, you should test again 48 hours after your first test. Take a third test, 48 hours after the second, if the second test was negative and you don’t have symptoms
If you test negative, follow the latest CDC guidance for self-testing.
