As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of COVID-19, new data shows promising strides in protecting vulnerable populations, especially older adults, from serious outcomes. A recent study led by researchers at Brigham & Women’s Hospital reveals that Paxlovid, a combination antiviral treatment, significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization and death due to COVID-19 caused by the Omicron variant.
A New Era in COVID-19 Therapeutics
Originally authorized during the Delta variant surge, Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir + ritonavir) was shown in clinical trials to reduce severe illness by nearly 90% among unvaccinated individuals. But with Omicron now the dominant strain and a large portion of the U.S. population vaccinated, the question remained: Is Paxlovid still effective in the current phase of the pandemic?
The answer is a resounding yes.
Drawing from a dataset of nearly 45,000 patients aged 50 and older across the first half of 2022, the study found that those prescribed Paxlovid had a 44% lower risk of hospitalization or death compared to those who did not receive the treatment. Among unvaccinated individuals, this risk reduction jumped to 81%, underscoring the critical role antiviral treatments can play for those still at heightened risk.
Implications for Health Equity and Hospital Capacity
While encouraging, the findings also expose ongoing disparities in access. Patients who identified as Hispanic, Latinx, or Black were less likely to receive a Paxlovid prescription despite similar eligibility. These inequities reflect broader healthcare access and education challenges that BIOMED remains committed to addressing in its community initiatives.
The overall hospitalization and mortality rate remained low (<1%). Still, strategic deployment of treatments like Paxlovid could prevent winter surges and preserve hospital capacity for other pressing medical needs.
“Paxlovid can save lives, and it can have a real impact on keeping hospital beds available for treating other conditions,” said lead researcher Dr. Scott Dryden-Peterson.
The BIOMED Perspective
At BIOMED, we see this as more than a pharmaceutical victory—a call to action. Ensuring equitable access to antiviral treatments and educating communities about their benefits aligns with our mission to empower healthcare through innovation and equity.
Whether through digital outreach, clinical partnerships, or telehealth integration, BIOMED is committed to bringing life-saving solutions to those who need them most, especially our aging populations and underserved communities.
What’s Next?
The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), reinforces the value of continued COVID-19 testing, early intervention, and antiviral access. As we head into another seasonal peak, Paxlovid and similar treatments could be powerful tools in our public health arsenal.
Learn More and Stay Protected
If you or a loved one is at higher risk for severe COVID-19, talk to your healthcare provider about whether Paxlovid is right for you.
→ Follow BIOMED for updates on COVID-19 treatment access, innovations in public health, and personalized care solutions.