The Burlington County Health Department has a limited number of free COVID/Flu test kits to distribute to county residents to help protect them and the people around them during the holidays and beyond.
The test kits are available for pickup at the Burlington County Health Department Building at 15 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton during regular business hours between 8 AM and 5 PM while supplies last.
Each kit contains two tests. The kits are free, but distribution will be limited to three kits per person.
With cases of the flu and COVID expected to rise before and during the holidays, Health Department officials hope residents take advantage of this free available resource. The kits can identify if an illness is the result of an influenza strain or a variant of COVID-19.
“Respiratory viruses are making their seasonal comeback, and we are expecting to see the usual rise in cases of flu and COVID as a result of holiday travel and gatherings,” said Burlington County Health Department Director Dr. Holly Funkhouser Cucuzzella. “Vaccines offer the best protection, but testing is another valuable tool because the kits can help identify cases and slow the spread. It can also help ensure the most vulnerable get treatment as soon as possible when it can be most effective. ”
She also advised residents who feel sick to avoid holiday gatherings.
“We want residents to enjoy the holidays with friends and family, but we also want them to be cautious if they have symptoms,” Dr. Funkhouser Cucuzzella said. “If you feel sick, stay home to take care of yourself and avoid exposing others who may be more vulnerable to potentially dangerous viruses.”
Free test kits are also available in large supplies for Burlington County community organizations to distribute. Those interested should contact the Health Department at bchd@co.burlington.nj.us.
The Health Department also continues to make flu shots available at no cost for residents who still need one. A full schedule of upcoming flu shot clinics is available at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2627.
“During the COVID pandemic, we saw how important health infrastructure and resources could be and our county has continued to prioritize community health and making resources available,” said Burlington County Commissioner Tyler Burrell, the liaison to the County Health Department. “Resources like flu vaccines and testing kits are proven difference-makers and can help guard residents, their families, friends and co-workers, so we want to encourage our residents to take advantage of them.”