The HSE has advised those who are at highest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 can access a new treatment Sotrovimab if they have had a positive PCR test. CFI understands this may include some people with CF.
These treatments can help some people manage their COVID-19 symptoms and reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill.
- Sotrovimab is an antibody treatment. The antibodies in sotrovimab are known as neutralising monoclonal antibodies (nMAbs). They attach themselves to the virus and stop it from infecting cells.
- Sotrovimab is given through a drip in your arm (an infusion).
- It is recommended that treatment begins in the first five days of symptoms starting.
- Antibody treatment would usually be offered as a first option to treat COVID-19 infection, rather than antiviral treatment
- Pregnant women, or those considering becoming pregnant or who are breastfeeding should not take Sotrovimab
- Only take Sotrovimab if prescribed by your consultant
You may be recommended Sotrovimab if all of these apply to you:
- You're at the highest risk of serious illness or death from COVID-19.
- You've had COVID-19 symptoms within the last 5 days.
- You've had a positive PCR test within the last 5 days.
- You're aged 12 or older and weigh at least 40kg.
For further information see https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/sotrovimab/
General COVID-19 Restrictions in place from 28th February in Ireland
For a summary of the changes to COVID-19 restrictions from 28 February 2022, a useful summary has been provided by Citizen’s Information https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/covid19/living_with_covid19_plan.html#l992b8
Most previous restrictions have been lifted or amended. The legal requirement to wear a face covering will no longer apply. You should continue to use a face covering on public transport and in healthcare settings.
Protective measures in schools, including pods, separated break times, and face coverings will end.
COVID-19 Testing
People with CF who have symptoms of COVID-19 are advised to get a free PCR test. Free PCR tests are also available for people who live in the same household as a person who has a weak immune system or provide support or care for them.
If you have symptoms of COVID you can book a PCR test here: https://covid19test.healthservice.ie/hse-self-referral/
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 you should self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms end.
CFI Advocacy and Support
CFI has advised the Government to consider our concern that the decision to end most of the COVID-19 restrictions is premature as COVID numbers remain high and the World Health Organisation has cautioned against the premature lifting of such restrictions world-wide.
According to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) in Ireland, there has been 60,363 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the previous 2 weeks (24th February 2022 and before).
In this context, CFI would continue to urge the CF community in Ireland and their families to take additional voluntary precautions until you feel it is safe to do otherwise. We will keep you up to date on the incidence of COVID-19 and created issues on a regular basis, while bearing in mind these statistics are likely an underestimation of the current extent of COVID-19 in Ireland.
Minding your Mental Health
The relaxing of restrictions may make you feel more anxious than usual. Some people may find it more worrying than others. Members of the team in CFI recently tried out a HSE Stress Control programme and found the practical steps and guidance very helpful. The 3 week programme is available for free with classes on Mondays and Thursdays and recommences regularly. During the course you learn new stress management skills and tips for minding your mental health.
For more information please visit https://stresscontrol.ie/
If you require any further supports please contact Samantha Byrne sbyrne@cfireland.ie