If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19, you may be eligible for a free treatment called monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy. The therapy, which has been approved for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA, is meant to be used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 to prevent hospitalization and complications from the virus. During treatment, patients receive a one-time outpatient IV infusion of antibodies to boost their immune system and help fight the COVID-19 infection.
How does monoclonal antibody treatment work?
Antibodies are a natural part of the body’s immune defense against infection. Monoclonal antibody treatment involves the use of lab-developed antibodies that are specifically designed to neutralize the virus that causes COVID-19, allowing the treatment to reduce the amount of virus in a person’s system. Having less virus in one’s system, or a lower viral load, can help a person infected with COVID-19 have milder symptoms, decreasing the likelihood that they will need to stay in the hospital.
How do I know if I am eligible?
Monoclonal antibody therapy is intended for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in patients 12 years of age or older who:
- Have a positive COVID-19 test and had symptoms for 10 days or less
- Are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death
Those who might be at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms include individuals:
- 65 years or older
- 55 years or older with heart disease, high blood pressure, or a chronic respiratory disease such as asthma or COPD
- 12 years or older with obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or a weakened immune system
Contact your doctor, or a Community Referral Coordinator (CRC), to receive more information and find out if monoclonal antibody treatment is right for you.
Where can I receive this treatment?
To find a provider offering free monoclonal antibody treatment near you, visit the RHC’s Vaccination and Treatment Map and click on the “Antibody Treatment” filter at the top of the page.