By: Follow South Jersey Staff
SOUTH JERSEY — In New Jersey, an average of 2,581 COVID-19 cases per day were reported for the week of December 5, an increase of 32 percent from the average two weeks ago, and deaths have increased by 66 percent, according to recent data.
As case number are increasing, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are once again providing free COVID-19 tests to every household in the country.
A limited round of ordering has begun, and tests will begin to ship starting the week of December 10.
“Having COVID-19 tests on hand is very important because you never know when you will need them,” Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services, said in a press release from Camden County. “Testing at home is extremely convenient and is a key part to keeping us all safe and healthy. We strongly encourage all households in Camden County to order their allotment of tests.”
Each household is eligible to receive four free tests. To order your free COVID-19 tests visit https://www.covid.gov/tests. People who have difficulty accessing the internet or need additional support placing an order can call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) to get help in English, Spanish, and more than 150 other languages – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. E.T., Monday to Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. E.T. on weekends.
Taking home tests are encouraged:
- If you begin having COVID-19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell.
- At least 5 days after you come into close contact with someone with COVID-19.
- When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines
The Murphy Administration said that it continues to monitor the rates of respiratory viruses across the state as the winter months approach and encourages residents to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families healthy before gathering for the holidays.
“The data and tools now available to us and the ongoing investments we are making in our public health infrastructure have better prepared us to address the public health needs of our state,” Governor Phil Murphy stated in a press release from the NJ Department of Health. “Particularly as we enter the winter months and holiday gatherings take place over the next few weeks, I encourage residents to help keep themselves and their communities safe by taking simple precautions of their own, from getting vaccinated to staying home if they are sick.”
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