COVID-19 testing, antiviral treatments and masking updates

Ontario recently expanded eligibility for COVID-19 PCR and rapid molecular testing and antiviral medication treatment to include more groups of higher-risk people. This added testing and treatment will help protect vulnerable individuals and our health care capacity.

You are eligible to receive a COVID-19 PCR test and to be assessed for antiviral treatments, such as Paxlovid, in Ontario if you are:

• Age 18 or older and are immunocompromised (immune system weakened by health condition or medications)
• Age 18 or older with fewer than three vaccine doses and at least one risk condition (e.g., a chronic medical condition)
• Age 60 or older with fewer than three vaccine doses
• Age 70 or older

Antiviral treatments must be taken immediately within the first five to seven days (depending on the treatment) of symptom onset and are not a replacement for vaccination or taking other recommended precautions.
If you have symptoms and are at higher risk of severe COVID-19, seek testing and care immediately by either:

• Visiting a clinical assessment centre (where you can get tested, assessed, and provided treatment or a prescription)
• Contacting a primary care provider (for example, your family doctor)

Use the antiviral screener tool to help determine if you are at higher risk and should be assessed for treatment. Find out more about antiviral treatment options or talk to your health care provider to learn more.

Protect yourself against COVID-19

Although most of the COVID-19 public health and workplace safety measures have been lifted, the mask mandate has been extended in select indoor settings.

Masks continue to be required in the following settings:

• Public transit
• Long-term care and retirement homes
• Hospitals, doctor’s offices, labs and other health-care settings
• Shelters, jails and congregate care and living settings, including homes with individuals with developmental disabilities

It is important to remember COVID-19 is still in the community and masking and vaccination continues to offer protection against COVID-19. Please ensure you are up to date with your vaccinations, for the protection of yourself and others.

Visit york.ca/covid19vaccine to find a vaccination clinic near you.