Last updated: 11/07/2022
Last reviewed: 14/06/2022
If you receive a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 infection you should:
Whilst vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19, the Australian Government continues to ensure that Australians have early access to safe and effective treatments as they are approved for use by the medical experts. This includes the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) provisional approval of the first oral anti-viral treatments for COVID-19 in Australia, Lagevrio® (molnupiravir) and Paxlovid® (nirmatrelvir + ritonavir). These are prescription-only medicines for people who have a high risk of developing severe COVID-19 disease and must be started as soon as possible after a diagnosis of COVID-19. If you are diagnosed as COVID-19 positive, you should immediately notify your GP and your treating neurologist/MS healthcare team to determine if you meet the criteria for treatment with these medications.
Commencing 11 July 2022, the eligibility criteria for these COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments were expanded. From 1 July 2023, eligibility for Paxlovid under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) was expanded further to include people aged 50 to 59. Australians in this age group with only one risk factor for severe illness – instead of two – will now get access to PBS-subsidised Paxlovid. See below for more information. See here for more information:
This helpline provides information and referrals for people with disability who need support because of COVID-19. The Helpline can also assist families, carers, support workers and services.
Disability Information Helpline:Â 1800 643 787.
The Helpline is available Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm (AEST) and Saturday and Sunday 9am to 7pm (AEST) and is closed on national public holidays.