Pfizer’s Paxlovid has become an appropriate treatment for adult cases of COVID-19. The medication is particularly helpful in preventing serious infection for at-risk patients, helping to keep them out of the hospital.
“It was really effective at keeping people out of the hospital,” explained Dr. David Wohl, an infectious disease expert at the UNC School of Medicine. “If you’re over 80, it’s a no-brainer, I think you should take Paxlovid, whether you’re vaccinated or not.”
Wohl said he also recommends the drug for those with compromised immune systems and says even those in good general health can benefit from taking Paxlovid because of indications that it can help reduce or prevent prolonged symptoms of COVID.
Patients, with and without insurance, have been able to apply for free Paxlovid prescriptions and co-pay cards since October 2023 because of an agreement between the US Department of Health and Human Services and Pfizer.
But this deal ends at the end of 2024.
Without a new option, patients could be left with a hefty bill. A prescription written and filled this week in Raleigh would cost $1,668.99 if the person didn’t have insurance.
“I think for people who could benefit from Paxlovid, I prescribe it, but I worry about health care costs like we do in general,” Wohl said. “What we really need is a race. We need more drugs that can compete with Paxlovid.”
The doctor explained that this could help reduce the cost of the medication, making it affordable for patients who need it.
The good news for North Carolinians is that current levels of COVID infection remain low.
Wednesday’s latest respiratory virus dashboard update showed 262 people nationwide were hospitalized with the virus. Infections peaked in December 2023 with over 1,200 people hospitalized.
Current data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that over 40% of new infections are caused by new omicron subvariants. So-called ‘FLiRT spikes’ are easily spread, but Wohl said it’s a good sign that hospitalizations haven’t increased.
“It’s about our immunity,” Wohl said. “We have herd immunity – both from catching infections, millions of people got omicron and because we are vaccinated. Even a small vaccination, I think, protects people in the long run from really getting sick.”
The doctor encouraged families to keep the tests at home and monitor symptoms. It doesn’t hurt to get tested for COVID even if you think you just have a cold or allergies.
“The numbers will increase, let’s be clear. It shouldn’t be breaking news that by the end of summer, until fall, cases of COVID will increase,” said Wohl. “We’re going to have COVID forever, just like we have the flu, and so we just have to get used to it. That’s why we have to be more vigilant.”
Wohl recommends getting tested whenever you develop symptoms, wearing a mask if you start feeling sick, and staying away from others until you feel better.
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