Florida has rapidly been closing all monoclonal antibody treatment sites, both in regard to the response by the Florida State government and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The Florida Department of Health said in a statement that “unfortunately, as a result of this abrupt decision made by the federal government, all monoclonal antibody state sites will be closed until further notice.” This decision to shut down the clinics was made largely due to the Omicron variant making head way in the States, as monoclonal antibody treatment has proven to be less effective against the virus.

In a more recent statement by the FDA, Regeneron and Eli Lily, both monoclonal antibody treatments, has data against its effectiveness, particularly that they are “highly unlikely to be active against the omicron variant.” Although this may seem like a redundant decision, as protection is protection nonetheless, the matter is more complicated. Omicron, since January 15th, has accounted for more than 90% of cases in the states, restricting these unnecessary treatments will likely reduce the exposure to the virus and its more vicious side effects.

For more in the moment information, refer to the CDC website.