The Illinois Department of Public Health is distributing one million free rapid COVID-19 tests to residents of low-income areas.
If you're in an eligible zip code, you can request a package of five over the counter tests that will be shipped to your home.
Public health spokesperson Mike Claffey says this is a joint effort between the state and the Rockefeller Foundation. He urges those with symptoms to get tested for the virus.
"We think it's really important for people to understand that COVID tests are an important tool to have at hand. Getting a positive test early in the course of the illness, it will allow you to protect yourself by getting treatment early in the process. If you get treatment early, it reduces severe outcomes. That's why it's important to get tested as quickly as possible if you are feeling symptoms."
To see if these free tests are available in your community, visit the website: accesscovidtests.org.
You can also visit: coronavirus.illinois.gov for other local testing options.
