With free tests, people won't have to go to the doctor to find out if they're carrying COVID-19. | Pixabay/Kollinger
With free tests, people won't have to go to the doctor to find out if they're carrying COVID-19. | Pixabay/Kollinger
When it comes to slowing the spread of COVID-19, at-home testing is one of the tools that has previously been less advertised than mask mandates and vaccines, but it can be a helpful tool in fighting the virus.
Now, the Biden administration is offering four free tests per home as a way to help people find out whether they’re carrying the virus without knowing, even if they’re not showing symptoms.
“COVID-19 is one of the most formidable enemies America has ever faced. We’ve got to work together, not against each other. Get your vaccine. Get your booster. Wear your mask,” President Joe Biden tweeted.
Wisconsin slightly lags U.S. vaccination averages, so the free tests will provide a way to make sure they’re not infected before they go to public events, even family gatherings, where the spread of the virus is more likely. It also lets someone save a trip to the doctor to find out if they have the coronavirus.
Across the country, 76.4% of Americans have received one dose and 64% are fully vaccinated. Those numbers are 70% and 63.25%, respectively, for Wisconsin, according to a vaccine tracking site.
“To help ensure Americans have tests on hand if a need arises, the Biden administration is purchasing one billion at-home, rapid COVID-19 tests to give to Americans for free,” the White House said in a release. "A half-billion tests will be available for order on Jan. 19 and will be mailed directly to American households.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its COVID-19 protocols, which still include wearing masks in public. The CDC stresses that masks should fit and be worn properly. It also explains that some types of masks are more effective than others.
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