Residents at Elevated Risk Encouraged to Seek Out No Cost Therapeutics As Soon as Possible

Ensuring easy access to COVID-19 therapeutics for residents at elevated risk and in hard-hit communities remains a key priority of L.A. County’s COVID-19 post-surge preparedness plan. 

Public Health is advising residents who test positive for COVID-19 and are at elevated risk for severe illness, to promptly call their doctor to see if they qualify for one of the outpatient treatments such as the new oral medications (Paxlovid and Molnupiravir) or injectable treatments (Sotrovimab, Bebtelovimab or Remdesivir). These treatments work best when taken as soon as possible after symptom onset.

Residents who cannot receive a COVID-19 vaccination for medical reasons, or their immune system is not strong enough to mount a response to the vaccine, should speak to their provider about Evusheld, an injectable medicine that is used to prevent COVID-19 infections.

All therapeutics must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and are free, although the treating facility may charge for administering the treatment.

All outpatient treatments are for use in those who are at high risk for severe illness. Paxlovid, Sotrovimab, and Bebtelovimab are restricted to those 12 years and older weighing at least 88 pounds. Molnupiravir is restricted to those 18 and over while Remdisivir can be used in both children and adults. Evusheld is available for anyone 12 and older weighing at least 88 pounds who has not been exposed to COVID-19 and can’t get a COVID-19 vaccine for medical reasons, or who may not respond well to a vaccine because they have a weak immune system due to a medical condition or treatment.

Residents who want these medications or have questions on which treatment is right for them should contact their medical provider or call the COVID-19 information line at 833-540-0473, 8:00 am – 8:30 pm daily. The call center is a free resource where residents can get culturally and linguistically appropriate information about available therapeutics and how to access them. Residents can also visit the http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/medication/ to find available therapeutics near them.

Although supplies remain limited, more residents are receiving these treatments through pharmacies, partners, and providers. 

For more information on the distribution of Sotrovimab and Bebtelovimab visit,  https://tinyurl.com/38cwy2jn 

While therapeutics are a powerful tool to combat COVID-19, they are not a substitute for vaccinations. Vaccinations and boosters continue to offer the strongest layer of protection for residents, especially as the county may encounter new variants or another surge.

Details: Testing sites in LA County https://dhs.lacounty.gov/covid-19/testing/. 

To order a second round of free at-home tests from the federal government. https://www.covidtests.gov/