Hey Philly editor Asha Prihar contributed to this piece.
The federal government has relaunched its free COVID test program, so you can now order free COVID-19 test kits to be mailed to your home. Each household can get four nasal swab rapid tests to detect the current virus strains, while supplies last.
Is There Anywhere I Can Pick Up Free Tests in Philly?
Yes. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health will provide you with three (or more) test kits per person at one of its five resource hubs. No ID or insurance is required.
What About My Old Tests?
COVID-19 tests have a shelf-life for when they can best detect the virus, but some expiration dates on diagnostic tests have actually been extended. Use this table from the FDA to search your test by manufacturer or name to see if it’s still a viable option.
It’s Time for Boosters, Too
An updated COVID-19 vaccine was approved last month to target the most recent virus strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the booster for those 6 months and older — and especially for people who have underlying health conditions, are over 65, or are pregnant. Previous vaccines no longer cover the current strain, and if you’ve been previously infected, your immunity wanes over time.
