2 Million Rapid COVID-19 Tests Heading To Massachusetts Cities, Towns

MASSACHUSETTS — Two million at-home COVID-19 tests are being sent out on a rolling basis to 264 Massachusetts towns starting this week, part of the Commonwealth's latest initiative to reduce the risk of the virus that continues to upend the lives of people around the country.

The number of tests each town or city receives depends on population size. Boston will receive the biggest share, followed by Springfield and Cambridge. Each town will decide how to get the tests to their residents.

"This initiative builds upon the Commonwealth's nation-leading efforts to make testing accessible for residents throughout the pandemic," Gov. Charlie Baker said.

COVID-19 case rates vary across Massachusetts, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, transmission levels in Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk counties remain "high."

Rapid tests can be administered at home and can deliver results within 15 minutes, making them an "efficient and flexible" way to keep Massachusetts communities safe, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito said.

In addition to diligent testing, the state Department of Public Health recommends staying up-to-date on vaccinations as one of the most effective ways to keep yourself and your community safe from COVID-19. When compared to those vaccinated with a primary series (first and second dose), unvaccinated people in all age groups had higher case and death rates, according to the CDC.

The CDC also recommends wearing face masks indoors in any area that has "high" transmission rates.