Benzinga | Aug 27, 2021 06:23AM EDT

See Why CVS Is Limiting Purchase Of OTC COVID-19 Tests

* CVS Health Corp (NYSE:CVS) is capping purchases of rapid, over-the-counter COVID-19 tests, with a maximum of six packages available online and four in its pharmacies.

* The limits apply to Abbott Laboratories' (NYSE:ABT) BinaxNOW along with a test from Ellume, according to an email from a CVS spokesperson, Bloomberg reported.

* Both tests are available without a prescription. The spread of the delta variant has resulted in a surge in demand for rapid virus tests, thus making the products scarce at some online retailers and in certain stores.

* The CVS spokesperson said that the online availability of rapid COVID-19 tests could shift based on demand.

* CVS said it is working with its suppliers to meet rising needs.

* According to the email, the change was made this week "to serve our customers' OTC testing needs, and due to high demand," according to the email.

* Related Content: Abbott Destroyed Several COVID Test Cards, Now Faces Diminished Capacity

* Price Action: CVS stock closed 0.65% lower at $83.03, while ABT stock closed 0.59% higher at $125.47 on Thursday.