Antibody Therapy Available for Treating Severe COVID-19

Tri-Hopsital EMS is now providing an innovative therapy to COVID-19 patients to reduce their symptoms. Through a partnership with the State of Michigan, Bamlanivimab infusion therapy can now be administered to symptomatic individuals in their own homes by licensed health professionals from Tri-Hospital EMS.

Ken Cummings, CEO of Tri-Hospital EMS, said in a press release, “Our team of skilled medics is proud to be taking another step onto the frontlines and administering this treatment that is helping fight the pandemic in Michigan. This innovative therapy is helping reduce COVID-19 symptoms and the need to visit the hospital for treatment.”

Bamlanivimab is an FDA approved monoclonal antibody therapy that has been administered approximately 2,000 times since December. Individuals 12 and older who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at risk for developing severe illness that would require hospitalization can speak to their doctor to see if the treatment is right for them.

Patients must meet certain criteria related to age, immune system health, and the presence of chronic diseases, and a prescription from a doctor is required.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand