Free Covid tests, treatments will return to help the country cope over fall and winter, US officials announce

As much of the US experiences high levels of Covid-19 activity, government officials have announced the return of programs to offer free tests, vaccines, and treatments for the winter respiratory virus season. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director, Dr. Mandy Cohen, emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and utilizing vaccines, testing, and treatment. Free Covid tests will be available in time for fall and winter gatherings, and government-supplied antiviral drug Paxlovid will be provided at no charge to uninsured or Medicare/Medicaid recipients. The CDC is also allocating additional funding for free Covid vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults, with free vaccines continuing to be available for children from low-income families through the Vaccines for Children program. The CDC predicts a similar or lower number of hospitalizations for respiratory diseases compared to last year. The availability of updated Covid and flu vaccines is expected soon, and health officials encourage individuals to get vaccinated to prevent severe outcomes, including long Covid. Free Covid vaccines will be provided to adults who cannot afford them, and vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) will also be available. The government plans to reopen its Covidtests.gov website in late September, where households can order up to four free at-home tests for delivery. In addition, free tests will be available at community sites. The government’s Paxcess program will continue to distribute free Paxlovid to uninsured or Medicare/Medicaid recipients. Merck’s patient assistance program will also aid individuals in obtaining its Covid-19 antiviral medication, Lagevrio.