Now that the Corona situation is worsening again, the United States is trying to combat the virus with as few resources as possible. All households will again receive free rapid tests for Covid.
While it is almost a gauntlet in this country to get a corona vaccination or an official corona test, the United States is already taking some more action against a new wave of infections. The US government will relaunch a program to offer Americans free Covid-19 at-home tests, the US Department of Health and Human Services announced.
Every household receives free testing
“We will resume our program to give Americans the opportunity to request tests,” Health Secretary Xavier Becerra said at an event where he was vaccinated against Covid-19 and flu. The American vaccination campaign is very broad: you can usually get the shot without making an appointment and in many public places.
Since Monday, citizens can order four tests per American household. The rapid tests can be done at home, regardless of whether someone has complaints or not. The tests should be valid until the end of the year.
The number of hospitals is growing rapidly
The program had effectively been suspended since May. However, Covid hospitalizations in the United States have increased significantly since July. The number of weekly hospital admissions has more than tripled compared to two months ago.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting tested if you have typical symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, loss of smell or taste, or fever. It is also advisable to get tested before attending a major event such as a concert or conference, especially if your vaccinations are not up to date.
The Austrian vaccination campaign has teething problems
The next wave of infections is also rolling out in Austria. Although Health Minister Johannes Rauch (Greens) believes that the country is better prepared for the start of the cold season than last year, there are still problems in tackling the virus. Although tests are only carried out by doctors and pharmacies, there are huge teething problems, mainly due to the vaccination campaign.
The vaccinations should primarily be carried out by practicing doctors, but many interested parties complain about the lack of appointments; a quick vaccination appointment currently seems hardly possible for many. The minister has already recognized this; the situation is “currently still unsatisfactory”. If problems still arise, he would also like to involve the pharmacies in the vaccination.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
