As the province heads into winter continued under the triple threat of COVID-19, the flu and RSV the government is making easier to access care.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones announced starting Monday pharmacists will be able to prescribe the COVID-19 antiviral treatment known as Paxlovid at no cost to the patient.
“By increasing access to these treatments in more convenient ways we are helping to keep people healthier and reduce COVID-19 related hospitalizations” said Jones.
Jones adds Paxlovid prescriptions will remain available through primary care providers and clinical assessment centres.
Eligibility for Paxlovid includes:
- Symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19;
- A positive lab-based PCR, rapid molecular, or rapid antigen test (including rapid tests done at home);
- The prescribing occurs within five days of symptom onset;
- The individual receiving the prescription is;
- 60 years of age or older
- 18 years of age or older and is immunocompromised
- 18 to 59 years old and at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes including having chronic medical conditions (such as diabetes, heart or lung disease) or inadequate immunity against COVID-19 (i.e., not up-to-date on vaccines).