Easton Fire Department personnel assisted in preparing at-home COVID-19 test kits for distribution, which are available for residents to pick up starting today at two locations in town. (Courtesy Photo) 
Easton Health Department personnel assisted in preparing at-home COVID-19 test kits for distribution, which are available for residents to pick up starting today at two locations in town. (Courtesy Photo) 
Members of the Easton Community Emergency Response Team assisted in preparing at-home COVID-19 test kits for distribution, which are available for residents to pick up starting today at two locations in town. (Courtesy Photo) 
Community members assisted in preparing at-home COVID-19 test kits for distribution, which are available for residents to pick up starting today at two locations in town. (Courtesy Photo)
EASTON — Public Health Officer and Fire Capt. Tim Vamosi, Director of Health and Community Services Kristin Kennedy and Fire Chief Justin Alexander would like to share that at-home COVID-19 self-test kits are available for Easton residents to pick up beginning today to help combat the spread of respiratory illness before, during and after the holiday season.
The Town of Easton has received an allocation of at-home COVID-19 test kits from the state. The kits are being distributed through a collaborative effort from the Easton Department of Health & Community Services, Fire Department, Community Emergency Response Team, School Department and community volunteers.
The tests are available free to residents beginning today, Monday, Dec. 19 at the Health Department office in Town Hall, 136 Elm St., and at Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows St., during the buildings’ normal business hours, which can be found here.
Residents are able to receive one kit per family member, per household. The kits have two tests in each box. They will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis while supplies last.
Residents who are homebound or have trouble getting to the two locations and would like to receive tests are encouraged to request kits by emailing boardofhealth@easton.ma.us.
Tests can be used to help screen for COVID-19 if symptoms develop. Tests can also be used before visiting with loved ones or friends who may not be able to be vaccinated themselves or who may be immunocompromised.
Respiratory illnesses, including the seasonal flu, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV), are currently circulating in communities across the country. In addition to self-testing for COVID-19, residents are encouraged to consider the below guidance to help prevent various respiratory illnesses:
- Get vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices.
- Some health experts are also recommending that those in high-risk communities or households with those commonly at a higher risk of illness consider wearing a mask once again in public, indoor spaces.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website to learn more about the flu, COVID-19 and RSV and how to prevent transmission.
About the Easton Community Health and Paramedicine program:
The Easton Community Health and Paramedicine program is a partnership between Easton’s Fire Department and Department of Health and Community Services. The program blends health care, public safety and public health. By investing in proactive and preventative care, the program seeks to provide support to residents that limits the need for emergency care whenever possible. Several events and initiatives are currently offered as part of the program. Learn more here or here.
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