People in Lanarkshire with COVID-19 who have certain medical conditions are being offered new treatments to help manage symptoms and reduce serious illness.
A number of eligible patients in Lanarkshire have received letters from the Scottish Government letting them know that because of the conditions they have, they may be eligible to receive one of the new treatments available for COVID-19.
A full list of high-risk patient groups prioritised for treatment can be found on the NHS Inform website.
To be able to receive these treatments, the person must also have a positive PCR or lateral flow test for COVID-19 and have symptoms of COVID-19 that started in the last five days.
There are two types of treatment available to help manage COVID-19 symptoms.
Patients who are eligible are being seen by appointment in Monklands and Hairmyres hospitals, where they are given an infusion of a medicine called Sotrovimab, also known as a neutralising monoclonal antibody (nMAb).
Others who meet the criteria are being offered anti-viral tablets which they can take at home.
Dr Lucy Munro told Lanarkshire Live : “These new treatments can help make COVID-19 symptoms less severe, make complications less likely and are important in protecting people with very weakened immune systems.
“We advise those who have received letters to get tested as soon as possible if they develop symptoms and to contact the dedicated telephone number highlighted on the NHS Inform website.
"People who think they may be eligible but haven’t received a letter can check the website to find out if they have any of the conditions on the list.
“Most people who have received the Scottish Government letters and want treatment are making contact with us through the dedicated phone line.
"In addition, eligible patients who meet the criteria are flagged to our test and protect team who will also make contact with them and highlight the new treatments during the test and protect phone call.
“Getting vaccinated remains the most effective step people can take to protect themselves and reduce chances of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19.
"For those who still become infected, these treatments will help alleviate their symptoms, help their recovery and reduce the number of hospitalisations as a result of COVID-19.”
For more information on the additional COVID-19 treatment options, including accessing the treatment and the dedicated telephone number, visit the NHS Inform website.
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