North Carolina Expands Access To COVID-19 Therapy

North Carolina is expanding the number of sites offering an experimental treatment for COVID-19. 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has announced several new locations that are offering monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of the virus.

The therapy is now available by appointment at the Health Foundation in North Wilkesboro. Locations have also been added in Robeson, Johnston, and Harnett counties. 

In the Piedmont Triad, Cone Health, Novant Health, and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist continue to offer treatments.

Monoclonal antibodies are produced in a lab and administered to a patient either intravenously or through a shot.

The treatment is designed to boost your immune system and help the body fight off infection.

Studies show that the treatment can be effective in reducing the risk of hospitalization. But health officials are quick to point out that it is not a substitute for vaccination, which they believe is the best protection against serious illness, hospitalization, or death from COVID-19.