Health officials are reporting an increase in cases both locally and nationally, which is excellent news for Minnesotans who are running low on at-home COVID testing.
The Minnesota Department of Health is once again providing eight free at-home quick COVID tests to residents each month while supplies last after ceasing to order free tests in January.
More than 2.5 million COVID tests had been supplied to Minnesota homes since April 2022, according to Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham, when free test ordering ended early this year.
The at-home quick antigen tests made accessible by MDH provide results in 15 minutes, are effective whether or not you have COVID-19 symptoms, and work whether or not you have had your COVID vaccines up to date.
Even if you’ve already ordered tests, you can order a batch of fresh ones once per month.
Medical experts advise that COVID-19 precautions should still be taken in addition to monitoring for symptoms and getting tested, particularly as the new school year begins for thousands of families.
Epidemiologist Kathy Como-Sabetti of the Minnesota Department of Health told KARE 11 that “COVID is still certainly with us.” “It’s important to get tested. And it’s important to understand if you are at high risk, what your options are, and how you can prevent severe disease.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention anticipate releasing a new, updated COVID booster this fall. Additionally, medical experts suggest checking with your doctor about the new COVID booster as well as the flu and RSV vaccines.