The Ministry of Health reminds the public that COVID-19 antivirals and therapeutics, Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, are available in Bermuda. These oral antivirals are available by prescription only from a physician.
Minister of Health, Kim Wilson, JP, MP, said, “Oral antivirals are pills that can stop the virus that causes COVID-19 from making copies of itself in your body. They successfully treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in persons at high risk of becoming seriously ill and can prevent hospitalisation or death.”
Paxlovid and Molnupiravar are available to the following patients:
- Paxlovid: Adults and children (12 years of age and older, weighing at least 88 pounds [40 kg]) who are at high risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 and have mild to moderate symptoms.
- Molnupiravir: Adults 18 years and older who are at high risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 and do not have access to other COVID-19 outpatient treatment options or other treatment options that are not appropriate for them and who have mild to moderate symptoms.
If you suspect you have COVID-19 symptoms, take an at-home test or get tested. If you test positive, let your doctor know as soon as possible. Your doctor will check your eligibility for these oral antivirals and prescribe them if appropriate. Start using oral antivirals as quickly as possible after you test positive for COVID-19, no later than five days after your first symptoms appear. These pills are taken at home two times a day for five days.
For a list of pharmacies carrying the antivirals, visit: https://bhec.bm/covid-testing-facilities/