Carilion NRV is now offering monoclonal antibody treatments to help reduce local hospitalizations due to
COVID-19.
“Monoclonal antibodies are therapeutics that have been developed to respond to different parts of your
body’s defense system or foreign invaders like the coronavirus,” said Dorothy Garner, M.D., interim chief
of Infectious Diseases.
“The COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment is an infusion given by IV over 30 minutes. The
monoclonal antibodies bind to the spike proteins on the coronavirus surface so it cannot bind to your
cells, and your body can clear the virus more rapidly,” said Garner.
According to Carilion, the treatment reduces the likelihood of hospitalization from COVID-19 by 70 to 85
percent if used in eligible patients early in the course of their infection. Anyone with risk factors for acute
illness from COVID-19 is eligible.
Given the current increase in COVID-19 community spread, demand for this treatment is high. Carilion
teams are working to increase staffing and access to infusions. Other area providers including LewisGale,
The Salem VA, and Sovah Health also offer monoclonal antibody infusion services. As is the case for all
health care providers, patients must receive a referral from their primary care provider for the treatment.
The treatments are available now in Roanoke and the New River Valley. Referral is required. If patients
feel they are eligible, they should talk to their primary care physician. Those without a primary care
doctor can call Carilion Direct (800-765-3506 or 540-981-7000) for more information.
