Free COVID tests are available again

The latest round of free COVID-19 from the federal government tests ships out this week.

Why it matters: High or very high levels of the virus are still present in some parts of the U.S. even though the summer COVID surge has diminished over half the country.

• Texas reported low viral wastewater activity levels in the week ending Sept. 21.

Driving the news: U.S. households can order four free COVID tests from the federal government with last week's relaunch of the at-home test distribution program.

How it works: Tests can be ordered on COVIDTests.gov.

• The tests will detect current COVID variants and can be used through the end of the year, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

Between the lines: The at-home testing distribution program launched in January 2022.

• Since the expiration of the public health emergency designation in May 2023, many insurers stopped covering the cost of COVID tests.

Zoom out: In August, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved new COVID shots from Moderna and Pfizer tailored to the KP.2 strain, which dominated summer cases.

Meanwhile: Health officials recommend everyone 6 months of age and older get the flu vaccine.

• Get your shoulders ready for the ouchies.

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