Free testing at U.S. airports will aid monitoring omicron variant

Federal health officials are expanding a program at key U.S. airports that offers free coronavirus testing, part of stepped-up efforts to monitor international arrivals amid growing concerns about the omicron variant.

Under the program, visitors from eight African nations, including those connecting through Europe, who arrive at New York’s John F. Kennedy International, Newark’s Liberty International, San Francisco International and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International airports, will be given the option of taking a test when they arrive. Those who volunteer also will be given the option of an at-home test to take three to five days after arrival. ...

International arrivals already are required to show proof of a negative virus test before boarding U.S.-bound flights, but CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said during a White House briefing Tuesday that the screening program at four of the nation’s busiest airports will provide additional data that can aid in the agency’s monitoring efforts. ...