By Jen Christensen, CNN
(CNN) — Covid-19 testing can now be requested from the US government at no cost.
As of Monday, people can request four tests according to the American website Covidtests. gov. People without an Internet connection can call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) to request testing.
Immediate Covid-19 testing can be done at home and can be used regardless of whether the user has symptoms or not. The tests will last until the end of the year. Some test dates may mean they have expired, but the U. S. UU. La Food and Drug Administration has extended those dates.
The U. S. government has already sent more than 755 million free Covid-19 tests to others who requested them. The program has been suspended since May. Covid-related hospitalizations have increased in the U. S. Weekly admissions are now more than three times higher than two months ago.
The U. S. Centers for Disease Control and PreventionThe U. S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that other people get tested if they have Covid-19-like symptoms, such as a sore throat, runny nose, loss of smell or taste, or fever. People may also need to be tested earlier. Attending a large event, such as a concert or conference, especially if other people are not up to date on their vaccinations.
People are also tested at least five days after they have been in close contact with someone with Covid-19, even if they have no symptoms. If a user gets a negative result, they are prompted to check back 48 hours later.
The Biden administration says it will continue to test other uninsured people more through thousands of network outreach programs. To locate a program with more flexible government testing, check online at an HRSA gym, at a Test to Treat site, or ICATT Site.
The program will reopen as the Biden administration prepares to step up messaging about flu, RSV and Covid vaccines, adding vaccines for higher-risk populations such as the elderly and young children.
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