08/11/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/11/2022 18:41
If you get COVID-19, do you know there is treatment available that can keep you from getting severely sick?
There is. But you must act fast.
Antiviral pills and monoclonal antibodies should be given within days after the onset of symptoms to be effective. So, you should get tested for COVID-19 as soon as you start developing symptoms. If you are 12 or older and test positive and are at high risk of progressing to severe disease, contact your doctor immediately so that you can get treatment.
People with certain medical conditions are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19, including those with:
If you do not have a healthcare provider, you can call 2-1-1 to find one. You can also call a Monoclonal Antibody Regional Center at (619) 685-2500 to access monoclonal antibody treatment at no cost, regardless of health insurance or immigration status.
"Monoclonal antibodies and antiviral pills work great to keep people from developing severe COVID-19," said Wilma J. Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. "If you're at higher risk of developing severe illness, you should seek treatment immediately."
Treatment centers and medical offices in the region may offer oral antiviral pills, which are taken by mouth, and/or monoclonal antibodies, which are delivered as an intravenous infusion. Your healthcare provider will determine what treatment option is best for you based on your symptoms, age and potential underlying conditions.
Novavax Vaccine is Available
Novavax, a more traditional vaccine against COVID-19, is now available in San Diego County.
You can get Novavax at local healthcare providers, retail pharmacies, and community clinics, as well as County public health centers and community vaccination events. You can make an appointment or find a walk-in clinic here.
Novavax has been authorized as a two-dose primary series, given three to eight weeks apart, to people ages 18 and older. Clinical trials showed that the vaccine series is 90% effective at preventing mild, moderate and severe COVID-19.
Everyone 6 months and older can get COVID-19 vaccines at no cost. For those who received an mRNA vaccine, boosters are available for people 5 years and older. Parental consent is required for all eligible minors to be vaccinated.
Vaccination Progress:
Deaths:
Cases, Case Rates and Testing:
More Information:
Data updates to the County's coronavirus-sd.com website will be published Mondays and Thursdays around 5 p.m., with the exception of holidays.