The federal government will now make free Covid-19 testing available to Americans

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – The start of fall means flu season is fast approaching.

Health services are preparing for an increase in the number of tests for Covid-19.

Starting today, free Covid-19 tests can be ordered delivered straight to American homes.

Kristy Polden, a public health nurse with the Eau Claire County Health Department, provided many details on this topic.

“Starting this month, Americans will be able to receive four Covid tests, four home Covid tests and nasal swabs for free, and the tests can be shipped to their homes.” – Polden said.

He says these free tests are helpful for those who can’t get an appointment at the clinic or for people whose insurance doesn’t cover the tests because the price has gone up.

“Many people want to know they have Covid-19 so that they can receive certain treatments available for Covid-19. In the same way they want flu treatment if it is influenza or RSV. At least knowing what you have will help you choose your treatment options.” – Polden said.

These tests are not PCR tests used by doctors, they are nasal swab antigen tests.

“These tests are home antigen tests, not PCR tests. So they are neither faster nor more definitive. We want people to start using these tests when they have symptoms because they are likely to show it on a home test.” – Polden said.

Testing is also important for some people who may have difficulty getting to a doctor.

“Either they are immunocompromised themselves, or they are elderly, or they are very small, very young. Or if they have immunocompromised family members or friends nearby, which could potentially have serious consequences if they contract Covid-19. – Polden said.