Is COVID Going to Make a Comeback in Chicago?

I hate to say this, but COVID is going to make a comeback in Chicago in the next few weeks. That’s the bad news. The good news is that we are more prepared than ever before. We have several viable treatment options and we are all experts on virus prevention and testing at this point. In addition, while the Omicron BA.2 variant is very contagious, up to 33% more contagious than the original BA.1 Omicron virus. 

Here’s are three things you need to know in order to prepare for the upcoming spike in activity:

There are several treatment options for COVID

We offer monoclonal antibodies and Paxlovid antiviral prescriptions at our clinic. When you arrive for your appointment, our medical provider will review your symptoms and the options for treatment with you. 

Sotrovimab & Bebtelovimab

Innovative Care has both Sotrovimab and Bebtelovimab monoclonal antibody treatments at our COVID clinic.Both should be initiated as soon as possible after diagnosis of COVID-19 and within seven days of symptom onset. Both are administered via an IV infusion and are effective against the Omicron strain and Omicron BA.2 variant. These lab-made antibodies serve as substitute antibodies that help our immune systems mimic the defense of natural COVID-19 antibodies, which have been determined to reduce serious infection and death. They are FDA EUA approved treatments for COVID-19. Review the FDA patient fact sheet for Sotrovimab and Bebtelovimab for more information. 

Currently, Innovative Care has decided to use Bebtelovimab, the newest monoclonal antibody that has been shown to reliably bind to the spike protein of the BA.2 variant.

Paxlovid

Paxlovid is an FDA EUA approved oral medication for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19. It is available by prescription only for patients age 12 and older. Paxlovid should be initiated as soon as possible after diagnosis of COVID-19 and within five days of symptom onset. We have the Paxlovid medication stocked at our clinic, so you’ll take the medication home with you immediately (no trip to the pharmacy). There is no charge for this medication here at Innovative Care.

Don’t Dismiss Symptoms

Cold, flu and COVID symptoms can all be similar. If you become ill, find out what you are dealing with so you can take action. COVID treatment requires quick action, as you are unable to take antivirals once you are past five days of being symptomatic. Similarly, monoclonal antibodies must be administered within the first seven days of having symptoms. Your best bet is to get tested if you have symptoms. Early action can not only help you feel better soon, but also protect those around you. 

Vaccination Prevents Serious Illness

If you are due for a booster, or have yet to be vaccinated, now is a good time to make your appointment. Vaccination against COVID plays a critical role in keeping symptoms mild if you do contract the virus. Why take chances? Wouldn’t it be better to have a sniffle versus an entire host of serious symptoms? We offer vaccines daily at our Downers Grove clinic.