WOODLAND, CA (MPG) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the first two oral antiviral treatments (pills) for patients at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death. Merck’s molnupiravir for the treatment of COVID-19 in adults and Pfizer’s Paxlovid for use in adults and pediatric patients (12 and up) will soon be available in Yolo County.

Molnupiravir and Paxlovid antiviral pills are available by prescription only at two local pharmacies and should be initiated as soon as possible after a diagnosis of COVID-19, within five days of symptom onset, and while symptoms are still mild or moderate. Initial availability will be extremely limited; Yolo County pharmacies will receive 140 courses of molnupiravir and 20 courses of Paxlovid. Rite Aid at 295 West Main Street in Woodland will have both molnupiravir and Paxlovid, while Winters Healthcare will receive molnupiravir. In the coming weeks, shipments are expected to be larger and sent to additional pharmacies.

“With the Omicron variant causing a rapid spread of COVID-19 cases in Yolo County, these new antiviral pills come at a critical time,” said Yolo County Health Officer Dr. Aimee Sisson. “However, the limited quantities available initially mean they won’t be available to everyone who gets infected. These first doses will be prioritized for those at highest risk of severe disease. Please continue to take steps to avoid infection in the first place and don’t count on an antiviral pill being available if you get infected in the next few weeks.”

Dr. Sisson strongly urges residents to continue with preventive measures that provide the best protection against COVID-19:

Vaccination and a booster for added protection if eligible; Wearing a well-fitted mask over your nose and mouth without gaps between the edges of the mask and your face; COVID-19 testing if you have symptoms, before and after a gathering or travel, and regularly if unvaccinated; Staying home when sick

To find vaccine locations, visit www.myturn.ca.gov for clinics, www.vaccines.gov for local pharmacies, or contact your healthcare provider. For testing, contact your local healthcare provider or find Yolo County locations at HealthyDavisTogether.org/testing/.