Mass. plans to distribute 3.5 million free COVID rapid tests, PPE to municipalities
Massachusetts cities and towns, as well as a vast swath of community organizations, can now apply for rapid COVID-19 antigen tests and personal protective equipment from the Baker administration.
The Executive Office of Health and Human Services on Tuesday announced plans to distribute at least 3.5 million at-home rapid tests, in addition to KN95 masks, surgical masks, face shields and nitrile gloves.Read more: What are the most common COVID symptoms? Its no longer fever, loss of taste
The administration has doled out nearly 30 million at-home tests over the past year, including during the height of the omicron wave.
By expanding access to tests through the places where people regularly visit, and to municipalities who know their communities best, we will ensure that all Massachusetts residents have access to free tests and PPE to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders said in a statement Tuesday. Everyone can continue taking steps to help manage COVID-19 including staying up to date on vaccines, staying home when sick, and wearing masks as needed.Read more: Mass. RMV to include lessons on marijuana impairment in drivers ed
Beyond municipalities, the Baker administration said a number of other entities are also eligible to apply for rapid tests and PPE, such as day programs, councils on aging, health care providers, senior affordable housing providers and assisted living residences.Read more: Mass. nearly done distributing 62F tax refunds to eligible taxpayers
The available supply of COVID tests will contain expiration dates that extend beyond the stated date on the box, officials said as they adhere to guidelines from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Over the past several years, we have partnered with communities to make sure residents can access the tools needed to manage COVID-19, like rapid antigen tests, Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. These tests build on the availability of vaccines, boosters and therapeutics, all of which are widely available across Massachusetts.
