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Free COVID-19 tests now available at health departments

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3 years ago

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Free COVID-19 tests now available at county health departments

by Will Stribling, Mississippi Today
July 26, 2022

Mississippians can now pick up free COVID-19 self-tests from their county health department. 

Under the program, each family can receive eight BinaxNow rapid tests each month. No doctor’s note or documentation is needed, though the recipient’s name, number of tests and zip code will be logged. The tests can be picked up during regular health department hours without an appointment. 

The number of tests each county health department received was based on the county’s population and the number of days the clinic is open. Each county health department can order more tests as often as necessary.

Liz Sharlot, director of communications at MSDH, said that the free test program has been in the works for the last few months and that the health department is “filling a public health gap and need by providing these home tests to the community.”

The move to supply free tests to Mississippians will help ease the financial barrier to at-home testing, as a pack of two self tests typically costs around $20.

This move by the health department comes as Mississippi faces another surge in COVID-19 infections. The state was seeing an average of 105 new infections each day at the beginning of May, but is now seeing an average of 1,445. Hospitalizations have also increased by more than 50% over the past month. 

The MSDH program is similar to a federal free test program, where USPS will ship eight tests to any home in the U.S. A third round of free at-home tests can be ordered at COVIDtests.gov.

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis

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9 hours ago

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February 23, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-23 08:19:00

SUMMARY: Pope Francis remains in critical condition, receiving high supplemental oxygen following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions. The 88-year-old, who has a history of lung issues, was hospitalized on February 14 due to a complex lung infection resulting in pneumonia. A Vatican update reported that he stabilized overnight but continues to face a reserved prognosis. While unable to celebrate Mass, he sent a message for prayers, highlighting the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Doctors warn of potential sepsis, but no signs have emerged yet. Recent decisions by Francis indicate his awareness of his declining health and preparations for succession.

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Mississippi News

Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23

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2 days ago

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February 21, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – Kaitlin Howell – 2025-02-21 06:33:00

SUMMARY: This weekend in Mississippi (February 21-23), enjoy various activities including the William Winter Free Day at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, and the “Art in Bloom” Flower Show in Natchez. Other highlights are the 31st Annual Chili Feast and “Of Salt and Spirit” quilt exhibition in Jackson, along with the Mississippi Blues Marathon. Engage in arts, culture, and wellness at the No Flinch Faith Women’s Empowerment Conference, and explore local markets in Jackson and Natchez. In Hattiesburg, participate in a Mardi Gras Tennis Mixer and various family-friendly events, culminating in the Monster Truck Mayhem show.

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All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto

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6 days ago

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February 18, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-18 05:00:00

SUMMARY: A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis to Toronto flipped over while landing at Pearson Airport on February 17, 2025. All 80 passengers and crew survived, with 18 hospitalized for minor injuries. Blowing snow and high winds were reported at the time of landing. Passengers described a forceful landing, with one recalling the plane suddenly rolling sideways. Initial investigations indicated normal communications before the incident, and experts noted that the aircraft is designed to handle adverse weather. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating, particularly the missing right wing. No fatalities were reported.

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