The complimentary COVID-19 tests provided by the federal government will soon reach their expiration date, and there’s a reason for this.

A couple of weeks ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) informed the public that families can request up to four tests each while supplies last.

However, many individuals may have noticed that these tests are set to expire soon. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has clarified this point.

“Tests issued through COVIDTests.gov are designed for use in the short term, particularly during the holiday season, and will have a minimum of two months before they expire,” explained Zachary Dembner, a spokesperson for ASPR, to YSL News.

“It’s important to note that many COVID-19 tests may have expiration dates that are longer than what is indicated on the packaging, and users should confirm their test’s expiration date on the FDA’s website,” he added.

The campaign encouraging families to obtain these free tests coincides with a rise in positive COVID-19 cases, especially as family gatherings become more common during the holidays.

Dembner also mentioned that ASPR aims to distribute tests to every household in the U.S.

“Beyond COVIDTests.gov, ASPR is providing over 5 million tests each week to underserved and uninsured groups, including long-term care facilities, food banks, and health centers,” he mentioned.

On October 2, the United States Postal Service (USPS) reported that more than 12 million COVID-19 tests had been shipped, with 6 million successfully delivered by the agency.

“The distribution of these at-home test kits is a crucial public health measure from the Department of Health and Human Services,” stated Postmaster General Louis DeJoy. “We are pleased to continue our partnership to ensure every household has access to the necessary resources to remain safe and healthy.”

How long will the free COVID-19 tests be available?

The HHS confirmed that the free COVID-19 tests will be accessible throughout the year, having started distribution on September 30.

Can I find the tests at local pharmacies? If so, where?

If you need at-home tests urgently, they are still available for purchase at pharmacies throughout the U.S.

The HHS recommends checking with local pharmacies and retailers to find where at-home tests are sold.

Additionally, low-cost or free tests may be accessible to those without insurance. To locate a COVID-19 testing site in your area, reach out to an HRSA-funded health center or ICATT location to schedule an appointment at pharmacies.

How can I get free COVID-19 tests?

If you’re interested in getting free COVID-19 tests, you can go to COVIDTest.gov or special.usps.com/testkits to place your order.

Is identification or proof of address required to obtain a COVID-19 test?

A form provided by the United States Postal Service requires applicants to supply their names and shipping addresses. Providing an email address is optional for those wishing to receive shipping updates.

Do the tests need to be collected in person, or can they be shipped to me?

The at-home tests will be conveniently delivered to individuals’ homes across the U.S., with free shipping provided.

COVID-19 tests will be easier to obtain

The HHS stated that the tests will be “more accessible” for individuals with disabilities, aiming to enhance testing technology for those who have difficulties using their hands as well as individuals who are visually impaired or blind.

Moreover, HHS intends to reach out to marginalized communities across the nation.

“These initiatives are part of ASPR’s ongoing efforts to provide free COVID-19 tests to long-term care homes, low-income senior housing, aging and disability networks, and various community organizations to aid older adults, people with disabilities, uninsured individuals, and underserved populations,” stated the HHS release.

HHS also reported that “over one billion over-the-counter tests have been distributed so far through this community access program.”

What should I do if I test positive?

The tests are capable of identifying the predominant COVID-19 variants currently in circulation, as confirmed by the CDC.

Results from at-home tests generally show within 30 minutes or less and are suitable for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. A number of COVID-19 tests now feature extended expiration dates.

Those who receive a positive result should adhere to the latest CDC recommendations to curb virus transmission.

While positive results are reliable, HHS cautions that negative results do not definitively rule out a COVID-19 infection. The FDA advises taking two negative antigen tests for symptomatic individuals or three antigen tests for asymptomatic individuals, spaced 48 hours apart.