Nova Scotia has made it easier for eligible residents to receive treatment when infected with COVID-19.
Nova Scotia’s Department of Health said Wednesday it is encouraging anyone with symptoms of COVID-19, “even mild symptoms,” to get tested and complete an online assessment form.
“Individuals considered to be at high risk may be eligible for COVID-19 medications and treatments to help reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalization,” read a statement from the NSH.
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Treatment options include Paxlovid – an oral pill that fights the COVID-19 virus by inhibiting the way the virus reproduces. The province first received a supply of drugs in January, in a shipment of 900 doses.
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Other treatments may include the following: budesonide, commonly sold as Pulmicort; remdesivir sold under the name Veklury; sotrovimab sold under Xevudy.
The criteria for a COVID-19 treatment prescription are specific, the health agency said, because “treating COVID-19 early and mildly does not benefit everyone.”
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Dr. Lisa Barrett, an infectious disease specialist at Nova Scotia Health, said most people would not qualify.
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“It’s for a very specific group that is at higher risk of serious illness and meets other criteria. There is also a very small window of opportunity for the drugs to be effective,” Barrett said in the statement.
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“That’s why when Nova Scotians book their test, it’s critical they complete the report and support form immediately.” This way, if they test positive with a PCR (test), we know almost immediately if they may be eligible and can track them.
Those who get a rapid test instead of a PCR must also complete the Report and Support screening form.
“Filling out the form is a great way to help us, help you,” Barrett said. “Please fill out the form – it’s short and the questions are only about you and your health, so you’ll know the answers!”
Those who complete the form but do not hear from NSH are not eligible for a prescription.
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