25December2024

editor

Publisher
Michael Walls
michael@accessnews.com.au
0407 783 413

01 April 2023

COVID-19 ANTIVIRAL MEDICATION ON BENEFITS SCHEME

STARTING April 1 PAXLOVID™ (nirmatrelvir tablets and ritonavir tablets) will be accessible on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for mild to moderate COVID-19 patients aged between 60-69 with one extra risk factor for severe illness.

This change increases PAXLOVID's eligibility criteria, making it the only COVID-19 oral antiviral medication to receive such an expansion.

Pfizer's Medical Director for Australia and New Zealand, Dr Krishan Thiru, emphasised that this update would enable more at-risk Australians to get treatment from their homes if they test positive for COVID-19.

According to Infectious Diseases Specialist Professor Robert Booy of the University of Sydney, vaccination is the most effective way to protect against COVID-19, and PAXLOVID is suitable for those at high risk of severe disease.

CAUTION: EASTER TREATS CAN HARM YOUR PET

COMPARE the Market, an Australian price comparison site, is urging pet owners to be extra careful with what they feed their pets during the upcoming Easter holiday.

Although many families enjoy chocolate and other Easter treats, such as hot cross buns and party food, these items can be deadly to pets.

More than half of Australians admit to struggling with paying bills, which could leave pet owners struggling to pay for emergency medical care if their pets become ill.

Many Easter foods, including chocolate, lollies, and hot cross buns, contain ingredients that are harmful to pets. Other seemingly harmless treats, such as sausages, can also harm pets.

To avoid financial strain and harm to pets, Compare the Market advises pet owners to ensure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date and to seek appropriate pet insurance.