Government of Yukon announces changes to Rapid Antigen Test availability

The free distribution of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) for COVID-19 will end on October 27, 2024. The current stockpile of RATs, provided through federal government programs, is set to expire by the end of October and no additional tests will be distributed through government channels.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has provided Rapid Antigen Tests free of charge to the Government of Yukon and other organizations as a critical tool in managing COVID-19. However, this federal program ended on December 31, 2023, marking a shift in focus toward other public health measures, such as vaccination. As a result, Yukoners seeking Rapid Antigen Tests will need to purchase them through participating pharmacies or request diagnostic testing in health care settings.

Pharmacies across the territory have responded with a variety of approaches to the discontinuation of free tests. Yukoners are encouraged to contact their local pharmacy for more information on the availability of COVID-19 tests and other options.

Diagnostic testing will remain available through the health care system, especially for symptomatic people needing clinical assessments and care. Testing is not recommended for people without symptoms, and anyone with respiratory symptoms is advised to stay home until they feel better, regardless of test results. Yukoners are also encouraged to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, which remain available at no cost. The government remains committed to addressing respiratory illnesses and has recently shared updates about the 2024–25 vaccination campaign.