Vaccination against COVID-19 and the use of antiviral medications has led to a decrease in the disease’s progression leading to hospitalisation and death.
For vulnerable populations, commencing antivirals within five days of symptom onset or a positive COVID test, and ideally commenced within 24 hours, provides maximum protection against severe illness and death.
The antiviral eligibility for COVID-19 antivirals was updated in November 2022.
If patients test positive for COVID-19, they may be eligible for antiviral treatments if they are:
- 70 years of age or older, regardless of risk factors and with or without symptoms
- 50 years of age or older with two additional risk factors
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, 30 years of age or older and with one additional risk factor
- 18 years and older if moderately to severely immunocompromised.
Rapid treatment for COVID-19 is vital for these patients. Further information can be found at:
Mid and North Coast Localised Pathways
manc.communityhealthpathways.org
Username: manchealth
Password: conn3ct3d