COVID-19 is on the rise, but so is the use of  preventive medication

ATLANTA, Georgia – From the Centers for Disease Control: Evusheld is an investigational medicine that can help protect you from getting COVID-19.

 

You may be eligible for Evusheld if you:

Are moderately or severely immunocompromised and may not mount an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccination OR have a history of severe allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines, and

Do not currently have COVID-19 and have not recently had close contact with someone with COVID-19, and

Are an adult or adolescent ages 12 years and older weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kg).

 

Evusheld contains two different antibodies that can help prevent COVID-19. It must be given by your healthcare provider before exposure to COVID-19.

 

Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if this option is right for you. Even if you receive Evusheld, taking multiple prevention steps, such as wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator and avoiding crowded places, can provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19.

 

For people who are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19 infection, medications are available that can reduce the chances of severe illness and death. Other medications can help reduce symptoms and help manage the illness.

 

People who are more likely to get very sick include older adults (ages 50 years or more, with risk increasing with older age), people who are unvaccinated, and people with certain medical conditions, such as a weakened immune system.

 

Being vaccinated makes you much less likely to get very sick. Still, some vaccinated people, especially those ages 65 years or older or who have other risk factors for severe disease, may benefit from treatment if they get COVID-19. A healthcare provider will help decide which treatment, if any, is right for each individual.

 

The FDA has issued emergency use authorizations (EUA) for certain antiviral medications and monoclonal antibodies to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people who are more likely to get very sick.