The Oakland Airport was the first to debut these vending machines for at-home Covid-19 tests.
Last week, the Oakland International Airport installed 2 contactless coronavirus test vending machines from biotech company Wellness 4 Humanity. Another was launched in New York City in Herald Square.
Watch the vending machine in action:
These kits are simple to use and will soon be widely available at other airports across the US! Kits range between $130-150 and may be reimbursed by insurance. After taking it home and providing a simple saliva sample, the kit must be mailed to a lab which will process results in 24-48 hours.
Having Covid test kits readily available at airports means that people can take the tests straight to their destination after landing and avoid having to schedule appointments or go into a clinic. Buying them from a contactless vending machine also reduces the risk of transmitting the virus between travelers and airport staff.
Wellness 4 Humanity is a team of entrepreneurs that develops innovative health solutions. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, they collaborated with software company Swyft Inc. and began implementing their technology to create simple Covid-19 home testing kits. They hope to add vending machines in Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, Denver and other major cities and airports.
If you’re looking for an alternative Covid-19 home test that ships right to your door, try this one.
[Featured image: Instagram / @w4humanity]