Free Rapid COVID-19 Test Kits Available to Winthrop Residents by Request

WINTHROP — Public Health Director Meredith Hurley wishes to announce that free rapid at-home COVID-19 test kits are available to Winthrop residents by request while supplies last.

Winthrop was one of 102 communities in Massachusetts to receive iHealth Labs OTC at-home rapid antigen test kits through a new state program. Winthrop received 2,520 test kits on Dec. 15.

The Winthrop Department of Public Health and Clinical Services has distributed 2,000 test kits to residents of public housing and elderly housing, daycares, those receiving food assistance, and those without transportation.

The remaining test kits are available by request to Winthrop residents only while supplies last. There is a limit of one kit, which contains two tests, per household. To request a test kit, please click here. 

Requested test kits will be available for pick-up on Wednesday, Dec. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the rear of Cummings School, 40 Hermon St. 

Those who cannot leave their home or do not have transportation may request for their test kit to be dropped off in their mailbox. Residents will receive a phone call once the test kit is delivered and should retrieve the test kit immediately. Residents should note that test kits cannot be stored under 36 degrees Fahrenheit and cannot be left outdoors overnight.

“These tests are a powerful and effective tool that can help quickly identify positive cases of COVID-19, thus mitigating the spread,” Director Hurley said. “Having a simple way to detect the virus at home is especially beneficial around the holidays as many family and friends will be gathering for holiday festivities.”

Additionally, residents are encouraged to get their booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine if they are eligible to help mitigate the spread of the virus. Vaccines and boosters are free. To find a clinic or pharmacy where you can get vaccinated, visit vaxfinder.mass.gov.

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