September 27, 2024
Free at-home COVID tests from the federal government are coming soon
The federal government is again offering Americans free at-home COVID-19 test kits. Individuals can begin ordering the test kits later this month. COVID-19 testing can help you know if you have COVID-19 so you can decide what to do next, like getting treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness and taking steps to lower your chances of spreading the virus to others.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will offer up to four nasal swab tests per U.S. household at COVIDTests.gov. For students living in multi-unit buildings such as residence halls or sorority or fraternity houses, it is important to include specific room or apartment numbers in your address when submitting your request. Once ordered, the at-home tests will be shipped at no cost. The tests will detect current virus strains and will be available while supplies last.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine regardless of whether they have been vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are currently available at Lafene Health Center. Appointments can be scheduled through the myLAFENE+ patient portal or by calling 785-532-6544. The cost of the COVID vaccine is $110 plus a $25 fee to administer. Lafene will submit insurance claims on your behalf; however, Lafene is not part of the Medicaid or Medicare networks and will not file insurance claims to those entities.