I Have COVID, Now What?

There are treatments available to help improve symptoms and to prevent severe COVID-19 progression, which can decrease your risk of hospitalization.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19, either from a test taken at a clinic, testing site or with an at-home test, and are interested in seeing if you qualify for one of the treatment options, you can either reach out to your provider or call CentraCare Connect at 320-200-3200.

Treatment options

• Oral antiviral medication. The most effective one is called Paxlovid. It works by making the virus less able to replicate itself.
• Monoclonal antibodies. These are antibodies given via an IV or injection that are specific to attack the virus. It supplements a person’s naturally made antibodies to fight against COVID-19. The antibodies are made in a lab and very safe.

CentraCare’s team of nurses and pharmacists will help determine which option is best for you and your unique health circumstances.

Important things to know

• Treatment must be started within the first 5-7 days after symptoms begin. Some people find that the symptoms get a bit worse as time goes on and end up waiting too long and are unable to begin treatment. It is important to test early and contact us for treatment early.
• If you test positive with a home test, you do not need to test again at a clinic or testing site to verify.
• People who are 12 or older and at least 88 pounds are eligible to be screened to see if they qualify for antiviral or antibody treatment. They need to meet the eligibility time parameters, have at least one high risk factor, and can have their medications reviewed.

Right now, the medications are free. For the IV or injection treatment, there is an administration fee billed to insurance or an individual.