A treatment developed specifically to fight COVID-19 is now available in Delaware hospitals.
The Monoclonal Antibody Treatment is given to those with COVID by IV, and it takes an hour to administer. The antibodies neutralize or dismantle the virus to prevent the progression of the disease.
"They are most effective when they're given early,” said Delaware Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “So ideally, they will be given within 72 hours of the development of symptoms, and that's why if you're over 65 and you start to develop symptoms or you think you might have COVID-19 talk to your doctor immediately get yourself tested so you can get a referral to get this treatment."
Rattay notes the side effects are extremely minimal, and there are certain qualifications to be eligible for the treatment.
"People only qualify if they've had a positive test within the last 10 days and also if they have mild to moderate symptoms,” said Rattay. “So, if you are already sick enough to be hospitalized or on oxygen you don't qualify for this treatment."
Several hospitals in the state already have the treatment according to Rattay.
"We've got Bayhealth, Beebe, ChristianaCare, TidalHealth Nanticoke, and the Wilmington Veterans Administration that have already begun operating infusion clinics," said Rattay.
She adds that other hospitals are soon to follow with the treatment.
Gov. John Carney says the treatment is a good way to both save lives and preserve hospital capacity, which is crucial as hospitalizations in the First State hit a record 400 on Tuesday.
