Testing for COVID-19 is a crucial first step in determining the appropriate course of action, including accessing treatments that can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and prevent further spread of the virus.
Importance of COVID-19 Testing
Knowing your COVID-19 status empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of those around you. Testing allows for timely access to treatments, especially for individuals at higher risk of severe illness.
Accessing Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests
In the U.S., every household can order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. This initiative ensures widespread access to testing without any financial burden, as the tests and shipping are completely free. For updates on your order status, you can sign up for email alerts during the ordering process.
Learn More and Order Your Tests
Alt: Ordering free at-home COVID-19 tests online.
Timely Treatment is Key
COVID-19 treatments are most effective when initiated early, ideally within 5 to 7 days of symptom onset. Prescription from a healthcare provider is necessary to access these medications.
If you suspect you have COVID-19, especially if you are in a high-risk group for severe illness, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional immediately to discuss testing and treatment options. Even with mild symptoms, early intervention can be beneficial. If you do not have a regular healthcare provider, local pharmacies, community health centers, or health departments can provide guidance and support.
Who is at Higher Risk?
Certain individuals are more susceptible to severe COVID-19 illness. This includes:
- Older adults
- Individuals with underlying medical conditions (such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or obesity)
- People with weakened immune systems
Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations is the most effective way to minimize the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Treatment further reduces these risks, particularly for vaccinated individuals who are still at high risk.
Available COVID-19 Treatments
The FDA has authorized and approved several antiviral medications for treating mild to moderate COVID-19 in high-risk individuals. These treatments aim to prevent the progression to severe illness.
| Treatment | Who (Among people at high risk) | When | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nirmatrelvir with Ritonavir (Paxlovid) (Antiviral) | Adults; children ages 12 years and older | Start as soon as possible; within 5 days of symptom onset | Oral medication taken at home |
| Veklury (remdesivir) (Antiviral) | Adults and children | Start as soon as possible; within 7 days of symptom onset | Intravenous (IV) infusion at a healthcare facility (3 days) |
| Molnupiravir (Lagevrio) (Antiviral) | Adults | Start as soon as possible; within 5 days of symptom onset | Oral medication taken at home |
It is important to be aware that some COVID-19 treatments may have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking. Side effects vary depending on the specific medication. For instance, Paxlovid can cause a temporary metallic taste. Paxlovid has a higher potential for drug interactions compared to other COVID-19 antivirals, but it remains a safe option for most individuals. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential interactions, especially if you are currently taking other medications.
For hospitalized patients, healthcare providers may utilize different medications depending on the severity of the illness. These may include antiviral drugs, medications to manage an overactive immune response, or treatments for COVID-19-related complications.
Individuals with weakened immune systems who continue to experience COVID-19 symptoms after antiviral treatment might require additional therapies, such as convalescent plasma, as recommended by their healthcare provider.
How to Access COVID-19 Treatment
To locate testing and treatment centers or pharmacies where you can fill prescriptions, visit the Treatment Locator (hhs.gov) or call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Cost Assistance for COVID-19 Treatments
Financial assistance programs are available to help eligible individuals with the cost of COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments like Paxlovid and Lagevrio. These programs are designed for people who are underinsured, uninsured, or enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Regardless of your insurance status, it’s advisable to inquire about these programs to determine if you qualify for assistance. Contact your healthcare provider and insurer to confirm coverage eligibility.
Alt: Discussing COVID-19 treatment options with a healthcare provider.
It’s critical to use only FDA-authorized or approved medications for COVID-19 treatment. Using unapproved products, even if approved for other conditions, can be dangerous and has resulted in serious harm and even death. The right medications for COVID-19 are essential for reducing the risk of severe illness. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication to treat COVID-19.
Preventing COVID-19 Infection
The Role of COVID-19 Vaccines
Vaccination is the primary defense against severe COVID-19 outcomes. Antiviral treatments are not a substitute for COVID-19 vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States are highly effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Like other vaccines, staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations provides the best protection. Learn more about staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
Finding Free COVID-19 Vaccines
Free COVID-19 vaccines are accessible through various channels, including private health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, public health safety net programs, and the CDC’s Vaccines for Children Program.
Find a free COVID-19 vaccine near you
Individuals with weakened immune systems, who are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 and may have a reduced response to vaccination, might need additional vaccine doses.
Further Reading: Vaccines for Moderately to Severely Immunocompromised People
In addition to vaccination, adopting core prevention strategies is crucial. This includes practicing good hygiene, improving indoor air quality, and staying home when feeling unwell to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Learn more about core prevention strategies.
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for COVID-19 Prevention
The FDA has authorized a preventive monoclonal antibody, Pemivibart (Pemgarda™), for pre-exposure prophylaxis in moderately or severely immunocompromised individuals aged 12 years and older, weighing at least 88 pounds. Pemgarda can provide an extra layer of protection against COVID-19, alongside vaccination, and should be administered at least 2 weeks after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
Pemgarda is administered by a healthcare provider as a single intravenous infusion over 60 minutes in a clinical setting. For continued protection, doses should be repeated every 3 months.
Pemgarda may be available at no cost for individuals with private insurance or Medicare Part B. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if Pemgarda is appropriate for you. The CDC is actively monitoring COVID-19 variants to assess their potential impact on Pemgarda’s effectiveness. The FDA will update Emergency Use Authorization materials as needed with new information. Pemgarda is currently the only preventive COVID-19 option available for immunocompromised individuals as described.
COVID-19 Recovery
Symptom Management at Home
Most people with COVID-19 experience mild illness and can effectively recover at home. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage symptoms and improve comfort.
Understanding COVID-19 Rebound
COVID-19 rebound refers to the recurrence of symptoms or a new positive test result 3 to 7 days after:
- Initial recovery from COVID-19 illness, or
- A negative test for SARS-CoV-2.
Rebound can occur regardless of whether antiviral medication was used. Rebound symptoms are typically mild and resolve within a few days.
Research indicates that there is no increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness associated with rebound after antiviral treatment.
For individuals at high risk for severe COVID-19, the benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risk of rebound. If you suspect you are experiencing rebound, consult your healthcare provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider, contact your local community health center or health department for guidance.
Resources
General Treatment Resources
Possible Treatment Options for COVID-19 (aspr.hhs.gov)
Oral Antiviral Treatment Resources
Nirmatrelvir with Ritonavir (Paxlovid) Information (fda.gov)
