(NewsUSA) - As we get back to summer travel, cookouts, and time with friends and family, COVID-19 is still something to watch out for. While the virus may not be making big headlines, it hasn’t gone away. In fact, in each of the last four years, COVID-19 rates have gone up in July and August.

Why does this happen? The summer heat often means more indoor get-togethers and events in air-conditioned spaces, more travel, and more time spent around other people. These are just a few of the things that give the virus more chances to spread.

While a mild case of COVID-19 may feel like a bad cold for some, it can lead to serious health issues, hospitalization, or even death for many others. Doctors say nearly 3 out of 4 U.S. adults are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19. This includes people with common health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, asthma and other lung problems. Even adults over age 50 have a greater chance of getting sick enough to need medical care.

Vaccines are still a strong defense against COVID-19. But they may not fully protect everyone, especially those with other health issues. And whether someone’s vaccinated or not, it’s important to be prepared and know that there are antiviral treatments that can help.

What Are Antivirals?

Antiviral medicines can help your body fight off the virus. They can help stop symptoms from getting worse and prevent more serious illness, lowering the chance of going to the hospital or dying from COVID-19. They work best if you take them within five days after the first symptoms start. So, acting fast is very important.

Many people who could benefit from treatment don’t know they can get it or don’t know how to find it quickly. This can cause delays, which makes the medicine less helpful.

“Some people think that if they got the vaccine or feel healthy, they don’t need treatment,” said Karyne Jones, President and CEO of NCBA, Inc. and co-convener of CVEEP. “But that’s not always true. COVID-19 can still cause serious illness for many people. Knowing when to take antivirals, and how to get them, can help save lives.”

What You Can Do Now

If you are more likely to have problems from COVID-19, here are a few steps you can take to stay safe:

Know your chance of getting very sick: If you’re age 50 or older—or have asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, or another health issue—you may be more likely to get very ill from COVID-19.

Talk to your healthcare provider: Ask if you might be someone who would benefit from an antiviral treatment and where to get it.
Don’t wait if you start to feel sick: Antivirals work best when taken early, especially within a few days of symptoms.

COVID-19 is still around, but we have tools to fight it. Being ready, staying alert, and acting quickly are the best ways to protect your health and enjoy your summer.

To learn more, visit cveep.org.