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Updated 5 May 2022
Practical Tips for people with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRD) in the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic
As your health care providers, all members of the Australian Rheumatology Association (ARA), (rheumatologists, nurses, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and other allied health providers), are keen to provide you with information about COVID-19. For specific questions please contact your rheumatology team.
We will aim to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Vaccination
Other things you can do to reduce your risk
There are currently 2 oral antiviral medicines available in Australia available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of adults with COVID-19, who are at increased risk of severe disease:
Molnupiravir (brand name Lagevrio)
Nirmatrelvir + ritonavir (brand name Paxlovid) can interact with many other medicines so speak to your doctor or rheumatology team if you have any questions.
These medicines are most effective if taken as soon as possible after a diagnosis of COVID-19. If you have been treated with these medicines, you should delay vaccination until you have fully recovered (approximately 4-6 weeks).