Last week, reports began circulating indicating a potential shift in the COVID isolation guidelines by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The proposed change suggests moving away from the current recommendation of a five-day isolation period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19. Instead, the CDC may advise individuals to isolate until they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours, and their symptoms show signs of improvement, as reported by The Washington Post, citing an unnamed source. While the CDC has yet to confirm this change, the mere possibility has prompted concerns among many.
Amidst this uncertainty, individuals may find it prudent to ensure they have access to essential COVID-19 resources, including tests and vaccines. Fortunately, free options for COVID-19 tests are still available, offering a viable solution for those seeking testing resources. Since January 2022, the US Postal Service has intermittently offered free COVID-19 tests, with individuals currently eligible to order four additional tests. Although the program faced interruptions due to test and funding shortages, it has been reinstated multiple times, providing households with access to essential testing resources.
In addition to the free tests from the Postal Service, other avenues offer free COVID-19 testing options across the US. HRSA health centers, Test to Treat locations, and ICATT testing sites cater to different needs, providing testing options for uninsured individuals and offering testing and treatment services in one location. These resources play a crucial role in ensuring widespread access to testing during this evolving phase of the pandemic.
