David Y. Igé | DOH Press Release: Federal Resources To Strengthen Monoclonal Antibody Administration To Treat COVID-19

HONOLULU – A federal team of 30 civilians are deployed to Hawai’i to administer monoclonal antibody therapy to treat COVID-19 patients. Increasing access to monoclonal antibody therapy will reduce serious illness in people recently infected with COVID-19, bringing relief to hospitals in Hawaii. Monoclonal antibody therapy is not a substitute for vaccination.

Monoclonal antibodies help the immune system respond temporarily to immediate infection. The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued emergency use authorization for a number of monoclonal antibody therapies that serve as early treatment after a diagnosis of COVID-19.

“Targeted use of monoclonal antibodies could prevent Hawai’i COVID-19 patients from developing serious illness requiring hospitalization,” said Director of Health Dr. Elizabeth Char, FACEP. “However, COVID-19 vaccination remains the most effective way to build lasting immunity and prevent serious illness and death. Improving access to monoclonal antibody therapy will reduce the pressure on our hospitals. We thank our state and federal partners for their help.

“We are taking yet another strategic step to preserve hospital capacity during an unprecedented period of demand,” said Hilton Raethel, president and CEO of the Healthcare Association of Hawaii (HAH). “The increase in the number of COVID-positive residents who receive this therapy will lead to a reduction in symptoms and reduce the demand on our hospitals. “

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is providing the 30 clinicians to increase the existing capacity to deliver this treatment. They are expected to arrive in Hawai’i on September 19.

Six teams will be stationed at federally approved hospitals or health centers across the state, administering treatment seven days a week. The teams will administer monoclonal antibodies by injection. Treatment requires monitoring and the ability to respond to reactions or other medical events.

Monoclonal antibody therapy is not a substitute for vaccination. Monoclonal antibodies provide brief immunity, compared to the longer lasting immunity created by vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective in preventing serious illness and death.

Treatment with monoclonal antibodies within the first 10 days of symptom onset may reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death. This treatment is authorized for people 12 years of age and older with mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at high risk of serious illness, not hospitalized and do not require supplemental oxygen. Patients should be referred by a physician. Although not everyone is eligible for monoclonal antibody therapy, all people 12 years of age and older are eligible to be vaccinated.

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