Monoclonal Antibody Infusions – Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses. – Monoclonal antibody infusions are treatments that greatly reduce the risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19. – Treatment gives the body the antibodies it lacks and allows to fight off the infection. – The treatment reduces the risk of hospitalization and death upto 85%. – It is indicated for patients who are positive with COVID and have mild to moderate symptoms, and have not yet been admitted to the hospital. It should be used within ten days of onset of symptoms. Ideally it should be given within the first four or five days before the fevers goes high or cough gets worse. – The treatment is free and available to anyone over the age of 12, weighing at least 40 kilograms (about 88 pounds). – It is not an option for everyone. It is given to high risk individuals that fall within any of these categories: 65 years of age or older Overweight (body mass index over 25) Pregnancy Chronic kidney disease Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) Weakened immune system Currently receiving immunosuppressive treatment Cardiovascular disease/hypertension Chronic lung disease Sickle cell disease Neurodevelopmental disorders You can find an infusion center near you at: https://covid.infusioncenter.org/ Author Mahesh S. Ochaney, MD