Monoclonal antibody treatments can help COVID-19 patients avoid hospitalization

Treatments are free

Posted 9/1/21

Monoclonal antibody treatments can prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death in high-risk patients who have contracted or been exposed to COVID-19.

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Monoclonal antibody treatments can help COVID-19 patients avoid hospitalization

Treatments are free

Posted

Monoclonal antibody treatments can prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death in high-risk patients who have contracted or been exposed to COVID-19. These treatments are widely available in Florida.

Treatment is free and vaccination status does not matter. If you are 12 years and older and are at high risk for severe illness due to COVID-19, you are eligible for this treatment.

In clinical trials, monoclonal antibody treatment showed a 70% reduction in hospitalization and death.

For high-risk patients who have been exposed to someone with COVID19, Regeneron can give you temporary immunity to decrease your odds of catching the infection by over 80%.

Treatment sites in the South Central Florida area include:

• Collier County. Old Dollar General, 1500 Lake Trafford Rd, Immokalee, open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Lee County, Old Bonita Springs Library, 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Palm Beach County, West Gate Park, 3691 Oswego Avenue, West Palm Beach, open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• St. Lucie County, Havert L. Fenn Center, 2000 Virginia Avenue, Ft. Pierce, open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monoclonal antibody treatments can be prescribed by health care providers to individuals 12 years of age and older who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness and hospitalization.

There is currently a standing order in Florida signed by the State Surgeon General that allows patients to receive this treatment without a prescription or referral if administered by an eligible health care provider. Such referrals are not required at any of the State of Florida monoclonal antibody treatment sites and treatments are available at no cost to patients.

The antibodies help the immune system recognize and respond effectively to the virus. According to the treatment guidelines , they should be administered as soon as possible after diagnosis. By providing access to these treatments at these new sites, state officials hope to alleviate demand on hospital resources.

For more information, call the Florida Department of Health Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Support Line: 850-344-9637.

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