Antibody treatment being used in Windsor-Essex

REGIONAL — The use of monoclonal antibody treatment has begun in Windsor-Essex.

The drug, called Sotrovimab, was given for the first time in the region on January 7.

Due to limited supply, the drug is reserved for unvaccinated people over 50 and vaccinated over 70 with immune-comprimised status.

It’s designed to be used within the first seven days of infection, and studies so far say it is highly effective against the Omicron variant.

It’s a one-time dose and is not a drug that’s meant to be used in the hospital for critically ill.

Patients are advised to reach out to their primary care physician about Sotrovimab if they fit the criteria.

On Monday, January 17, Health Canada also announced the approval of the first at-home antiviral pill to treat mild cases of COVID-19.

The new pill, called Plaxovid, is made by Pfizer and is by prescription only. It is only authorized for adults over 18 and must be prescribed by your doctor.