State Distributing at Least 3.5 Million More Free At-home COVID-19 Tests

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito administration recently announced plans to distribute another 3.5 million free at-home COVID-19 rapid antigen tests and personal protective equipment (PPE) for municipalities and community organizations to make available to residents across the Commonwealth. This latest distribution builds upon the successful distribution of nearly 30 million at-home tests to a range of settings across the Commonwealth over the past year.

Municipalities may request to receive tests, KN95 masks, surgical masks, face shields, and nitrile gloves to combat the spread of COVID-19. The Commonwealth is also making these tools available to other settings and organizations, including day programs, councils on aging, community-based organizations, healthcare providers, providers of affordable housing for seniors, aging-services access points, and assisted-living residences.

“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. “These tests build on the availability of vaccines, boosters, and therapeutics, all of which are widely available across Massachusetts.”

Added Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders, “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. 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.”