Paxlovid, the COVID-19 antiviral pill, is now available at pharmacies across the province.

According to the Pharmacists’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, pharmacists are now able to assess for, prescribe, and dispense the pill.

They explain that it essentially stops the virus from replicating, which reduces a person’s chances of becoming severely ill.

They say that to be effective, the anti-viral pill must be administered within the first five days of symptom onset, meaning that convenience and ease of access play an important role.

Paxlovid is a treatment option for people who have tested positive and have been symptomatic for five days or less, have not been hospitalized, are considered high risk, and have not been advised against taking the drug.

People who feel they may be eligible to take the drug are asked to call their local pharmacy for an assessment. People are asked not to go into pharmacies if they have symptoms or have tested positive.

If someone has symptoms but does not have access to a PCR or rapid test, the pharmacy will provide one at no cost as part of the assessment process.