Hey N.J., here’s how to get your free COVID-19 tests

The federal government program that provided free COVID-19 tests to each household in the United States the last three winters started up again this week.

Every household is eligible to order four free tests, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services website.

The tests can be ordered at COVIDTests.gov . Orders will ship free, starting Monday.

READ MORE: Fewer people plan to get vaccinated. Misinformation is to blame, the CDC says.

The tests are self-administered rapid antigen tests and not PCR tests, which take a longer time to perform.

"PCR is the most reliable and accurate test for detecting active infection," according to the Cleveland Clinic.

However, health professionals agree quick, early testing is key to preventing the spread of COVID-19.

"Rapid antigen tests are most accurate when used within a few days of the start of your symptoms, which is when the largest amount of virus is present in your body," according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Antigen tests can be taken at home or other locations and will provide results within 30 minutes, no lab drop-off required. The tests can be used even if you do not currently have COVID-19 symptoms.

The tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through the end of the year, according to the government website.

Whether the result is negative or positive, the federal government wants each test result logged. Report test results to public health agencies at MakeMyTestCount.org .

Health officials are also urging people to think twice before throwing away any expired tests they may have.

Many COVID-19 tests have extended expiration dates, so it may be possible to use a test after the expiration date printed on the box, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To find out if a COVID-19 test has an extended expiration date, check the FDA's list of extended expiration dates .

Anyone who needs help placing an order for at-⁠home tests can call 1-800-232-0233. Deaf and hard of hearing individuals can call TTY 1-888-720-7489.

New Jersey is heading into the season of respiratory illnesses — RSV, flu, and COVID-19 can all result in illness, hospitalization, and even death.

The average percentage of inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients in the state was 2.2% for the week ending September 14th, according to the latest COVID-19 and Respiratory Illness Activity Report .

The state has reported 501 deaths associated with COVID-19 so far this year, with 61% of the deaths among those 80 years and older, according to the report.

Stories by Jackie Roman

N.J. health system is drug testing pregnant women without informed consent, AG alleges

Fewer people plan to get vaccinated. Misinformation is to blame, the CDC says.