COVID wave set to peak as state pushes for fourth shots, antivirals

NSW is facing a coronavirus wave tipped to rival the Omicron summer as the state government and health bodies push for better access to antiviral treatments and expanded eligibility for fourth doses

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Health Minister Brad Hazzard advocated for more people to be able to receive the shots at a meeting of state and federal health ministers last week. Antivirals are currently available for people aged 65 and over with two high-risk factors; those aged 75 and over with one high-risk factor; or moderately to severely immunocompromised people. People in these age groups may be recommended a particular antiviral, due to interactions with other medications.

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia president Dr Fei Sim said more needed to be done to communicate how people both determine they are eligible for antivirals as well as safely receive them, with reports of COVID-positive people attending pharmacies seeking the drugs. Health Services Union national president Gerard Hayes said Tuesday’s COVID update should serve as a “wake-up call” to a community grappling with pandemic fatigue to “grow up” and get a booster.

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