More Australians can receive COVID-19 antiviral drugs from Monday in an attempt to reduce the number of people in hospital.
More Australians will be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral drugs from Monday in an attempt to reduce the number of people in hospital.Known as Lagevrio and Paxlovid, the drugs cost $6.80 for a concession card holder and around $40 for othersTreatment needs to begin as soon as possible after symptoms appear
Under the current rules, the drugs are restricted to Australians who are 65 years or older with particular risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, not being fully vaccinated, or living in a remote area with limited access to health care. Known as Lagevrio and Paxlovid, the drugs cost $6.80 for a concession card holder and around $40 for others.People aged over 50 with at least two risk factors for severe disease, as well as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged 30 and older with at least two risk factors will also be eligible.
Currently people aged 18 and older who are severely immunocompromised or have severe physical or intellectual disabilities requiring residential care, as well as people with cerebral palsy or down syndrome can request antivirals and that remains the same under the changes.
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