Can you use expired COVID-19 tests? Answers to all your questions before the holiday weekend

ATLANTA — A lot of you may be planning to travel or gather with family and friends over the Fourth of July weekend.

But where does COVID-19 stand? The latest numbers from the state are expected late Wednesday evening.

Channel 2′s Linda Stouffer shares three things you should know going into the holiday weekend.

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For most vaccinated people, right now, COVID-19 currently sets you back a few days.

Health officials are tracking new omicron variants that are spreading in the United States.

Data shows that variants BA.4 and BA.5 are increasing. BA.5 now comprises more than 35% of COVID-19 cases, after first appearing here less than two months ago.

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“Well, the fact that we have these omicron variants that are very contagious, the most contagious, so far in epidemic. Luckily, hospitalizations have not increased dramatically. But we are going through our summer surge, if you will,” said Dr. Felipe Lobelo, an epidemiologist with Kaiser Permanente of Georgia.

New data shows shots may prevent long COVID. As of this month, everyone 6 months and older is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination or a booster.

Lobelo told Stouffer that there’s new research showing that vaccinations may be protecting people who get breakthrough infections from long COVID and lingering symptoms.

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Some expirations dates have been extended. Every household in America can now order a third round of free COVID-19 test kits from the federal government.

Make sure to check the expiration dates of any kits you have at home. Some dates are now being extended, including i-Health and Binax NOW boxes.

You can also check specific dates online.

If you’re planning to travel, pack a few of those tests, in case you end up needing them.

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