In preparation for the holiday season, you’ll soon be able to order four free Covid tests for your family through a government program.
While most of us have some degree of immunity and probably won’t get that sick if we contract COVID-19, it’s still a good idea to have the test kits on hand if you are going to be around those who are at risk for severe illness.
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How to get your free COVID tests
Beginning Monday, Sept. 25, you will be able to request four free COVID tests per household through the covid.gov/tests website. The free rapid COVID-19 tests will be delivered directly to your home by the United States Postal Service beginning Oct. 2.
More than 775 million free tests have been mailed to more than 2/3 of American households since the start of the program. This will mark the fifth time the government has distributed tests for free in partnership with the USPS.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need additional tests, the U.S. government is also continuing to provide low-cost or no-cost tests to underserved communities.
Find Low-Cost and Free COVID Tests Near You:
COVID Test Expiration Dates Extended for Some At-Home Tests
Don’t throw away expired COVID tests. The FDA has authorized an extension of expiration dates for some at-home COVID tests. You can check to see if your test is among those with an extended expiration date here.
Where to go to get a COVID test in Tampa Bay:
It’s pretty easy to find a spot to get a quick COVID test whether you are looking for a rapid test or PCR. There are even tests that screen for COVID and Flu A & B in one swab, so be sure to ask about that too. Your doctor’s office will have the test as well as most walk-in clinics, but there are more options too.
COVID test locations in Hillsborough County:
Make sure to bring your photo ID and date of birth for all persons tested. If you have health insurance, bring your insurance card with you. Click here for the Covid-19 Resource page for Hillsborough County.
COVID test locations in Pinellas County :
There are multiple other locations throughout Pinellas County where you can get a COVID test, but you may have to pay a fee or co-pay to cover the cost of clinic’s time. Click here to find a location near you.
COVID test locations in Pasco County:
There are several more locations where you can get a COVID test in Pasco County.
Other locations to get a free COVID test in Pasco County:
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19 and should consider taking a COVID test:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
When to seek emergency attention:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone
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