Free COVID-19 Treatments Are Available in Massachusetts

Vaccines and boosters are the best way to protect against COVID-19. However, even some people who are fully vaccinated may get COVID. People who test positive - whether vaccinated or not - and who are at high risk for serious illness now have access to free treatments that can help prevent severe disease.

Treatment is available for people who:

• are at high risk of severe disease (due to age or medical condition - see note below)**;
• test positive for COVID-19; and
• have any symptoms, even mild ones (such as runny nose or cough).

It is best to get treatment as soon as possible after getting COVID-19 to help prevent serious illness. Some treatments are oral (pills) and others require infusions or injections (needles).

Oral Therapeutics (Pills)

Pills must be taken within 5 days of your first COVID symptom.

• Paxlovid (For people age 12+.)
• Molnupiravir (For people age 18+.)

Injections/Infusions

These treatments are available for people age 12+ and must be given within 7 days of the first COVID symptom.

• Remdesivir
• Bebtelovimab

How to Access COVID-19 Treatments

Call your doctor right away to learn more about COVID-19 treatment if you develop symptoms. The state also offers telehealth appointments, state-funded treatment sites, and in-home treatment for people who are eligible. For more information, visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website.

** People who are at risk for serious illness include those who are older than 55 or have an underlying condition such as heart, lung, liver, kidney disease, diabetes or whose immune system is suppressed by illness or medication. For a complete list of conditions that may put you at higher risk see: People with Certain Medical Conditions