The treatment lessens the severity of the disease and reduces hospitalizations due to the virus.

Ocala - As the Delta variant of COVID-19 continues to spread, AdventHealth Ocala continues to encourage people who contract the virus to get a monoclonal antibody infusion within 10 days of experiencing symptoms. In clinical trials, monoclonal antibodies were shown to reduce hospitalizations and ER visits for patients at high risk for developing a more severe case of the disease.

The treatment is intended for those who have developed COVID-19 symptoms within the past 10 days, are not hospitalized or on oxygen. To qualify, patients must meet specific criteria including having a positive COVID-19 test within the 10-day symptom window and have a doctor’s order. The treatment is provided at the AdventHealth Ocala infusion center but an appointment must be made to receive the infusion.

Other important items to note:

• The infusion requires one dose and will be given by IV infusion.
• Patients receiving the drug will be required to stay on site for at least one hour following the one-hour infusion to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Most reported side effects are mild and include dizziness, muscle pain and headache.
• People who have been vaccinated, and who subsequently get a COVID-19 infection and meet the criteria may still receive the infusion.