Press release for immediate release – ANZMES (Associated New Zealand Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Society Incorporated) is calling on Pharmac to amend its eligibility criteria for COVID-19 antivirals, ensuring individuals with Infection-Associated Chronic Conditions (IACCs), such as Long COVID, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and related conditions, are explicitly included. Without clear guidance, thousands of high-risk patients remain vulnerable to severe illness, prolonged health deterioration, and systemic barriers to treatment.
Research indicates that early antiviral intervention can reduce the risk of post-viral complications and prevent worsening of complex conditions such as ME/CFS, POTS, and Dysautonomia. Yet, the current eligibility framework fails to acknowledge the unique vulnerabilities of individuals with IACCs—despite their heightened risk of severe health outcomes.
“Many people with Long COVID and ME/CFS experience immune dysfunction and metabolic impairments that make them more susceptible to severe complications from COVID-19,” says Fiona Charlton, President of ANZMES “Denying them access to antivirals isn’t just an oversight—it’s a failure to recognise the long-term consequences of untreated infections.”
Further compounding the issue is the lack of plain language in Pharmac’s policies, which creates unnecessary hurdles for individuals with cognitive impairments such as brain fog. For those with ME/CFS, Long COVID, and similar conditions, navigating complex medical documentation is an added barrier to securing timely care. Advocates stress that simplifying healthcare communication is key to ensuring equitable access.
“We need clear, accessible policies that patients can understand and navigate without additional stress,” says Charlton. “For people with cognitive impairments, convoluted processes can mean the difference between receiving treatment and being left behind.”
Key recommendations include:
- Explicit Inclusion in Eligibility Criteria
- Amend the access criteria to specifically list IACCs among conditions qualifying for Paxlovid treatment.
- Recognise the unique vulnerabilities of these conditions in the context of COVID-19 infection.
- Expand Paxlovid eligibility to include people aged 30-50, where ME/CFS prevalence is highest.
- Consider eligibility for teenagers and young adults, who are also at risk of infection-associated complications.
- Assessing the feasibility of a lower-dosage option for children with ME/CFS and related conditions, ensuring those most vulnerable can receive timely intervention.
- Clinical Discretion for Prescribers
- Allow healthcare providers to exercise discretion in prescribing Paxlovid to individuals with IACCs based on clinical judgment.
- Ensure prescribers are informed about the potential benefits of early antiviral intervention for these patients.
- Public Health and Equity Considerations
- Acknowledge the disproportionate impact of IACCs on marginalised communities, including Māori and Pasifika populations.
- Ensure equitable access to antiviral treatments for all high-risk individuals, regardless of formal diagnostic classifications.
“This isn’t just about viral treatment—it’s about protecting vulnerable populations from further health decline,” says Charlton. “We urge Pharmac to act now to ensure access is equitable and effective for all who need it.”
ANZMES urges Pharmac to adopt these recommendations, preventing unnecessary health deterioration and ensuring individuals with chronic conditions receive the medical intervention they deserve.
