California households will soon be able to order four free COVID-19 test kits as part of a nationwide initiative to increase access to testing ahead of a projected winter surge in infections. The tests, which will be available starting at the end of September, are designed to detect current COVID-19 variants and provide results within 30 minutes. While California has experienced a slowdown in COVID-19 cases and fatalities since late August, public health officials caution that the respiratory illness is expected to peak during the winter months. The newly identified COVID strain, known as XEC, has already been detected in multiple countries, including the U. S.

, with reported cases in California. To order the free test kits, residents can visit COVIDTests. gov, where they will find additional information on the program. The initiative is part of an effort to prepare the public for a potential rise in cases as the colder months approach. As part of the program, households will receive four tests delivered to their doorstep, ensuring easy access.

This proactive measure aims to support public health efforts and encourage timely testing among Californians.