The provincial government will begin distributing free rapid test kits for COVID-19 in late November and early December.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald made the announcement this morning in light of an increased incidence of respiratory illness circulating in the province.

She says the kits are being distributed to help people assess symptoms. Two test kits, each containing five tests will be distributed to households through Canada Post in two separate deliveries of one kit each.

She says while there has been an increase in respiratory illness in the community, it’s not like the huge spikes seen in other jurisdictions in the country.

She says the system is prepared for a possible surge in cases, but the public has to do its part to prevent the spread of illness.

Dr. Fitzgerald is continuing to encourage people to get a COVID booster, get a flu shot, wear masks in public, wash or sanitize their hands, and report a positive test if they get one to help Public Health assess the situation.

Rapid tests do not always detect COVID-19 on the first or second day of symptoms. If your first test is negative, and you still have symptoms, take a second test 48 hours later.