US Ending Free At-Home COVID Test Program as Infections Decline, Updates Guidance to Reflect Progress
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Today (March 8) is the last day to order free at-home COVID-19 tests from the US government to be delivered by USPS. Over 1.8 billion tests have been delivered so far.
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The decision to pause the program comes as COVID-19 rates slow down in the country. Tests may still be distributed again in the future if needed.
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The CDC has updated its COVID-19 guidance, shortening the recommended isolation period for those who test positive.
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The new guidance focuses on actions like staying home when sick, getting vaccinated, and improving indoor air quality to reduce spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.
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The changes reflect progress made in reducing COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths over the past two years, but vaccines and treatments are still emphasized.