Marylanders can now order another round of free COVID-19 nasal swab tests that will be delivered directly to their homes. Each household can get four tests through COVIDtests.gov.
Already have some at home? Check here to see if your tests' expiration dates have been extended.
Forms to apply for the kits can be accessed at this link.
Updated rapid tests are expected to be able to detect newer variants just as a new COVID variant, XEC, arrives in Maryland. It is a member of the Omicron family.
The availability of free at-home tests comes just after the Food and Drug Administration approved two updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging everyone 6 months or older to get a new shot this fall since last year's shots were geared toward a strain that is no longer around.
As flu and RSV season approaches, health officials recommend residents stock up on tests and update all vaccinations.
