Select local COVID-19 testing sites are now offering “test to treat” services, Fresno County public health officials say.

Through this program, people can get tested, assessed by a medical provider, and (if appropriate) given prescription oral antiviral pills (Paxlovid or Molnupiravir) in the same location.

“Test to treat means individuals who seek COVID-19 testing services can be connected to treatment services sooner, which decreases the chances that person will end up in the hospital or die from COVID-19,” says Dr. Rais Vohra, Fresno County interim health officer.

“Starting therapy early is key to decreasing the health burden from this disease.”

The start-up of test-to-treat sites follows last week’s warning from the Fresno County Department of Public Health that the Valley is seeing an uptick in respiratory illnesses and COVID cases.

Test-to-Treat Locations

Information on local COVID-19 vaccine sites and testing locations is at this link. 

Services offered at test-to-treat sites are intended to provide access for people without insurance or who are unable to obtain timely testing and treatment through their usual healthcare provider.

Treatment services are free at OptumServe sites, but people should ask about fees when calling non-OptumServe test-to-treat sites, health officials said.

Watch: Test to Treat

Test to Treat Initiative

Oral COVID-19 treatments have been found to be effective against the COVID-19 virus, including Omicron variants. But they must be taken within the first five days after COVID-19 symptoms appear, officials say.

The most effective oral treatment is Paxlovid, but it is only for people ages 12 and older who weigh at least 88 pounds. Molnupiravir is for people ages 18 and older who cannot take Paxlovid.

Officials say the supply of all medications approved for COVID-19 treatment has increased in recent weeks.

Treatments Reduce Risks but Aren’t Substitutes for Vaccines

Fresno health officials warn that people who are considered at high-risk may develop more serious symptoms from COVID-19.

Older adults could end up in the hospital, admitted into intensive care, need help breathing, or have a greater risk of death if they contract COVID.

However, research studies indicate that early antiviral treatment helps the immune system respond more effectively to SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and reduces the risk for hospitalization and death.

Services offered at test-to-treat sites are intended to provide access for people without insurance or who are unable to obtain timely testing and treatment through their usual healthcare provider.

Treatment services will be free of cost at OptumServe sites but individuals should ask about fees when calling non-OptumServe Test to Treat sites, said health officials.

Despite the options available to treat COVID-19, doctors say that treatments are not a substitute for COVID-19 vaccines.