Waltham Gives Out Last Free Covid-19 Rapid Test Kit

WALTHAM, MA — Waltham officially ran out of its allotment over 8,200 at-home coronavirus test kits Tuesday, which the state provided to the city at the beginning of last week to help residents stay safe during holiday gatherings.

Waltham residents were invited to pick up the free at-home test kits at Government Center on Tuesday, but the city ran out long before every person in line received one.

"We understand this has been a frustrating experience for all, and if we could accommodate every single one of our residents, we would,” said the city in a news release Wednesday. "Please be patient and understand that we're all doing our best with the resources we have."

Over 6,000 of the kits were delivered last week based on Gov. Charlie Baker's guidance for most in need. Only the remaining 2,200 tests were distributed by pick up on a first come basis.

The city will be able to purchase more test kits in January. Until then, many local pharmacies are receiving new shipments of at-home test kits this week and residents can order them online at https://ihealthlabs.com.