As we prepare for the upcoming viral illness season, we want to ensure the community has access to the most up-to-date information regarding flu shots, current COVID information- including vaccine updates and how and when to seek care for these conditions.
Flu Vaccine
Flu vaccines are the best way to reduce your risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season, especially people at higher risk.
Patients can schedule an appointment for a flu shot by using their MyChart account, calling their PCP office, walking-in at Meritus Primary Care – Prospect Street or visiting a local pharmacy.
Flu Treatment
In most instances, patients can manage their symptoms at home with over-the-counter medications, rest and fluids.
Those with a more severe case of flu, or those at higher risk, should contact their PCP, if you don’t have a PCP, MeritusNow virtual care is available. Your primary care provider may prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the symptoms of the flu and shorten the time you are sick.
COVID Vaccine
Meritus Health has received initial doses of the COVID vaccine, as of October 5, 2023. Patients looking for a COVID vaccine can schedule an appointment by using their MyChart account, contacting their PCP office, the health department or a community pharmacy.
COVID Testing
Many over-the-counter COVID tests are available in pharmacies, grocery stores and at online retailers. These tests are quick and easy to use and provide accurate results for most patients.
Should you need a laboratory test, COVID testing is available at all Meritus Medical Laboratory locations. To be tested a patient must have an order from a healthcare professional. Appointments are not required; testing is completed on a walk-in basis. Any fees associated with the COVID testing will be billed to the patients insurance or the patient, as with any other medical test. COVID testing is not free. Testing is also available at many local pharmacies.
COVID Treatment
For mild cases of COVID, patients can manage their symptoms at home with over-the-counter medications, rest and fluids.
For more severe cases of COVID, patients should contact their PCP, if you don’t have a PCP, MeritusNow virtual care is available. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, please visit the Meritus Medical Center Emergency Department. Physician ordered treatment options for severe cases of COVID include:
- Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir (Paxlovid®)
- Molnupiravir
- Remdesivir
Your PCP can order these treatments. Patients who only qualify for Remdesivir treatment will want to be aware of the following information:
Remdesivir is a three day infusion treatment. You will need to come to the Meritus Regional Infusion Center on three consecutive days to receive your full course of treatment. Each treatment will last approximately 2-3 hours.
The hours for the Regional Infusion Center are 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Outpatient hospital-based infusion treatments require a 20% co-insurance payment from patients. This means that most patients will have to pay around 20% of the cost of the drug and infusion out of pocket. You would need to consult your insurance provider to find out the specific details for your plan.