A laboratory worker at Eli Lilly prepares a solution used to manufacture bamlanivimab, a new monoclonal antibody therapy for COVID-19.
When given within 10 days of a positive COVID-19 test, these man-made antibodies may help lessen the severity of the disease and reduce the need for hospitalization in people most at risk of developing severe COVID-19.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A University of Florida Health pilot program is planning to bring a new COVID-19 monoclonal antibody therapy to rural communities in North Florida during the coming weeks, the university announced Tuesday.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services selected UF Health and the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute to coordinate the distribution and administration of 1,000 doses of bamlanivimab to eligible residents in rural North Florida communities, including those in Columbia County.
The pilot program, which will be offered in Columbia County and surrounding rural communities first and later expanded to other counties, with private support from the Sarasota-based Louis and Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust with a $250,000 contribution.