As community members prepare for Thanksgiving gatherings, the Union County Health Department is offering free COVID test kits.
The test kits can be reserved online at unioncountyCOVID.org/testing and picked up on Nov. 17 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the health department, 940 London Ave.
There is currently no limit on the number of kits that can be requested, although that is subject change is demand begins to exceed the health department’s supply. The kits being provided have a mid-December expiration date.
One person is allowed to pick up kits for multiple households.
For individuals interested in picking up test kits but unable to make it to the Nov. 17 times, test kits are also available in the office of the Union County Health Department on Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Test kits are provided to the health department by the State of Ohio.
For more information on the holiday test kit distribution, those interested may call UCHD at (937) 642-2053.
The Union County Health Department is also participating in federal and state programs to offer the updated COVID shot for children and adults without insurance.
Since the Federal Emergency Declaration surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic ended in May 2023, the COVID vaccine became part of the private marketplace. Local health departments and healthcare providers must order the new vaccine from the manufacturers.
UCHD has ordered and administered two shipments of the vaccine at this point and has placed a third order for a limited supply.
According to the CDC, an updated COVID vaccine is recommended for most people ages 6 months and older. At least two months must have passed since receiving a previous COVID shot to get the updated shot.
Those interested in the updated vaccine can call the health department to learn more or make an appointment.
UCHD officials noted that CVS, Meijer and Walgreens pharmacies in Marysville are also accepting appointments for the new shot.