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Anyone else struggling to obtain anti virals ?

(35 Posts)
vickymeldrew Fri 01-Apr-22 20:29:17

I have a compromised immune system and have been labelled ‘climically extremely vilnerable’. I am in the group requiring the highest levels of protection and have already had four jabs (not age related).
I have previously received personally addressed letters from NHS England outlining the guidance I should follow. I have been sent PCR tests to use and am now eligible for free lateral flow tests.
All fine and dandy and I have been healthy throughout the pandemic.
However, on Monday I tested positive for Covid on both lateral flow and PCR and am quite poorly. I referred to my shoal of letters comfirming my eligibility for the new anti viral medications and how to access them. There is a short time frame for them to be effective.
Despite following the instructions to the letter - NHS England, GP, 111, dispensing centre - i am unable to get past the initial conversation. I am repeatedly told ‘a clinician will call within 24 hours’. I have been trying different routes and techniques since Monday now. (The antivirals need to be taken within 5 days). Without fail, I am constantly told, yes, I am eligible for the treatment and I need it soon.
Obviously I know the NHS is swamped at the moment, but I feel this issue of the ECVs is being kept very quiet.
Has anyone in my category managed to obtain these meds ?

vickymeldrew Sat 02-Apr-22 21:45:05

Well, Hallelujah! After multiple calls to all available numbers and not accepting anything I am told, i was called back by a doctor from 111.
As we know, it is now too late for antivirals to be of any use (has to be prescribed within five days). Doctor very apologetic ( not his fault he is given impossible targets).
He has given me more antibiotics which I hope stop the infection spreading further down to my lungs.
At the moment, with the current high numbers of CEV folks becoming infected,, this service standard appears to be the norm.
The NHS must be honest about the true situation.

TillyTrotter Sat 02-Apr-22 21:59:09

It all sounds very unsatisfactory but at least you have a prescription for your infection vickymeldrew .
Well done for keep persevering - our health is so important.
? Feel better soon ?

vickymeldrew Sat 02-Apr-22 22:57:56

Thank you ladies for your practical support. You have been a real reassurance to me. Gransnet at its best

Sandra12 Sat 02-Apr-22 23:12:21

Hi Vicky, Hope you are alright? Can I please ask which anti bionics the doctor prescribed for you? Any info is helpful to have at hand should the virus strike.

Sandra12 Sat 02-Apr-22 23:12:51

sorry - should read antibiotics

FannyCornforth Sun 03-Apr-22 05:14:29

I’m so pleased to hear that you’ve eventually got some help Vicky
Well done for persevering.
I hope that you’ve had a good night’s sleep

FannyCornforth Sun 03-Apr-22 05:15:08

That’s an excellent point Sandra

nanaK54 Sun 03-Apr-22 08:14:18

Sending all good wishes to you vickymeldrew flowers

FannyCornforth Sat 09-Apr-22 07:27:47

Hello Vickysmile
How are you getting on now?
I really hope that you are feeling much better thanks