I think we're all longing for the day that we can put the talk of variants and vaccines behind us. Nobody knows exactly when that day will come but it'll definitely still be a while. The battle rages on as the numbers released today show just under 3,000 newly confirmed COVID cases in Montana. Over 500 of those cases were from Missoula. It feels like we've reached the point where if you haven't tested positive yet, you've at least had a family member or close friend that has.

Be prepared with free at-home COVID tests

At-home COVID tests can provide you with instant results and save you a trip to the doctor's office or other testing facilities. But they seem to be one of those things where you might not want to spend the money to grab one at the store until you actually need it. Of course, when you need it seems to also be when everyone else does as well and there's the chance you won't find one. An event this weekend is a great way to have tests available at home for those "just in case" moments.

It doesn't get any easier than this

You can snag a free at-home COVID test kit without even getting out of your vehicle this weekend. Actually, you'll get a couple of tests as each box contains two. Missoula County 911 is set to distribute over 25,000 at-home test kits at a few different locations while supplies last. In Missoula, it happens at Fort Missoula Regional Park near the baseball fields this Sunday, January 30th.

Other places to grab your free test kits include:

• - By appointment, call (406) 677-2400, Seeley Lake Fire Station.
• - Sunday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Clinton Fire Station.
• - Sunday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Frenchtown Fire Station.

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If you're out and about this weekend it can't hurt to grab a free at-home COVID test kit just to have it on hand!

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Keep reading to discover answers to 25 common COVID-19 vaccine questions.

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