Governor Hochul Announces More Than 80 Million Over-the-Counter COVID-19 Tests Distributed to New Yorkers

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than 80 million COVID-19 over-the-counter tests have been distributed to date by New York State as part of the administration's ongoing efforts to keep New Yorkers protected throughout the pandemic. At-home rapid tests are being provided regularly to schools and nursing homes in the state.

"Testing remains a critical tool to identify cases of COVID-19 and limit the spread of this virus," Governor Hochul said. "We have already distributed more than 80 million COVID-19 tests to New Yorkers, and we will continue to bolster our preparedness for the future, keep our communities safe, and safely move forward through this pandemic."

While at-home testing continues to play an important role in identifying cases and curbing the spread of COVID, Governor Hochul and Commissioners Bassett and Bray are urging New Yorkers to get vaccinated and boosted as the best method of protection against COVID-19. The State's free vaccine sites remain open and New Yorkers ages 50 and over are encouraged to get a second booster in accordance with the recently expanded CDC guidance.

Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said, "Governor Hochul, the State Department of Health and I continue to urge all New Yorkers to get tested when not feeling well or potentially exposed - including after traveling or being at events - and to contact a health care provider immediately following testing positive to discuss eligibility for treatments. New Yorkers should also complete their initial COVID-19 vaccine series and get boosted when eligible, as vaccination is still the best way to protect against serious illness and hospitalization."

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "New York has one of the most robust test kit distribution networks in the country thanks to Governor Hochul's leadership. This is a significant milestone achieved by personnel across the administration working around the clock to deliver tests on behalf of New Yorkers. Together, we are working to limit the spread of the virus and keep New Yorkers safe."

Since late December, 81,720,820 tests have been distributed throughout New York to schools, nursing homes and adult-care facilities, local governments and certain non-profits for wider distribution, as well as the New York City Housing Authority and various food banks. Governor Hochul previously announced more than 100 million at-home tests have been procured for distribution across the State to identify new cases and limit the spread of COVID-19.

Of the over 100 million tests procured, nearly 20 million tests have been stockpiled to help prepare for any potential surges later this year.