Wisconsin residents can now order up to four free COVID-19 test kits this September, as the state experiences another surge of the virus. Wastewater surveillance across Wisconsin has indicated “high” or “very high” levels of COVID-19 in certain regions, signaling a rise in cases. This marks the seventh time in the past three years that free test kits have been made available to the public as part of the federal government’s ongoing response to the pandemic, according to health officials.
The revival of this free testing initiative follows the recent approval of updated COVID-19 vaccines by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the upcoming fall and winter months. These new test kits are designed to detect the dominant variants of COVID-19 that are currently circulating, making them a critical tool in the ongoing effort to control the virus. Dawn O’Connell, assistant secretary for preparedness and response at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), confirmed that the tests will be capable of identifying these prevalent strains.
Where to Get COVID-19 Tests in Wisconsin
For those without health insurance, symptomatic individuals, or those who have been exposed to the virus, there are several options to obtain COVID-19 tests for free. In the Milwaukee area, for example, there are about a dozen no-cost testing sites, many of which are located at Walgreens pharmacies. Residents can also locate the nearest testing site by using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) testing locator tool online.
Additionally, some insurance plans continue to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing, allowing individuals to order tests through retailers like Walgreens by providing their insurance information. However, for those looking to purchase tests out-of-pocket, COVID-19 test kits remain available at stores like CVS, Walgreens, and other retailers across the state. These kits typically range in price from $16 to $24 for a two-pack.
How to Use At-Home COVID-19 Tests
At-home COVID-19 tests are simple to use and can provide results within 30 minutes or less. To ensure accuracy, it is important to follow the directions on the packaging carefully. Many people may not realize that the expiration dates of some COVID-19 tests have been extended, so before discarding any unused tests, check the FDA’s website for information on authorized at-home diagnostic tests and their expiration updates. This can help ensure you are using a valid test.
COVID-19 Symptoms and What to Look For
As the virus continues to circulate, it is essential to stay vigilant for symptoms. COVID-19 symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure to the virus, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, while others might have no symptoms at all. In some cases, symptoms may progress about seven to 14 days after they initially appear.
The Mayo Clinic outlines common symptoms associated with COVID-19, which may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
These symptoms can range in severity, and individuals experiencing any of them should consider testing and possibly isolating to prevent further spread.
Related Information: Vaccinations in Wisconsin
As COVID-19 cases rise again, it’s worth noting that vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness. In addition to COVID-19 vaccines, Wisconsin requires certain vaccinations for children before they return to school in the fall. Keeping up to date with both regular and COVID-19 vaccinations is essential to protecting public health, especially in the face of new variants.
The state’s response to this latest surge shows a continued focus on testing, vaccination, and public health guidance to keep the population safe. While this latest wave of free test kits helps provide another layer of protection, residents are encouraged to stay aware of symptoms, use tests appropriately, and follow health advisories as the pandemic evolves.
By remaining proactive—whether through testing, vaccination, or monitoring symptoms—Wisconsinites can help control the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves and others during this challenging time.
