For Immediate Release: December 23, 2021
Media Contact:
Ben Truman │ Vermont Department of Health
802-316-2117 / 802-863-7281
bennett.truman@vermont.gov
Most Covid-19 Rapid Take-Home Tests Allocated for Today are Out
More Available at Sites on Friday and Again Before New Years
State allocating 96,000 tests in lead up to the holidays
BURLINGTON, VT – Most testing sites have already distributed all the antigen take-home test kits that were available today. Additional tests will be available tomorrow, December 24 at the Agency of Transportation sites. Two test kits per car (or walk-in) will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis. People should plan in advance for high demand and wait times. Locations and updated information about availability can be found at healthvermont.gov/testing.
Approximately 30,000 tests will have been distributed to Vermonters today. In recognition of the high demand for testing in advance of the holidays, the state has increased the number of rapid antigen tests available to 96,000 tests. These kits are distributed through sites around Vermont and in coordination with community partners. In addition to the thousands of PCR tests administered each day, the state is also making available 10,000 rapid LAMP tests.
The Scott Administration is continuing work to acquire more rapid antigen tests for broad distribution, but like other states, we are constrained by the realities of the supply at the federal level. President Biden announced this week it will distribute a half-billion of these tests around the country in January. In the meantime, Vermont will continue to get as many tests as possible into the hands of Vermonters, as fast as possible.
We thank everyone for recognizing the value of these rapid tests in protecting themselves and their loved ones, and especially those most at risk of serious illness.
Please continue to check healthvermont.gov/testing for updates and to report your test results.
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