A major breakthrough in the fight against COVID-19 has been announced by the World Health Organization (WHO). The organization has approved the use of a new drug, called Sotrovimab, for emergency use in treating COVID-19 patients.
Sotrovimab, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir Biotechnology, is a monoclonal antibody therapy that has shown promising results in clinical trials. It works by targeting the spike protein of the virus, preventing it from entering and infecting healthy cells.
According to the WHO, Sotrovimab has been found to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death by 85% in high-risk patients. This is a significant development in the fight against the pandemic, as it provides an effective treatment option for those who are most vulnerable to severe illness.
Dr. Mariângela Simão, WHO Assistant-Director General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, stated that the approval of Sotrovimab for emergency use is a major step forward in the global effort to control the pandemic. She also emphasized the importance of equitable access to the drug, especially for low- and middle-income countries.
The WHO’s decision to approve Sotrovimab for emergency use was based on data from clinical trials that showed its safety, efficacy, and quality. The organization also considered the urgent need for effective treatments as the world continues to battle the pandemic.
Sotrovimab is the fifth drug to receive emergency use authorization from the WHO for treating COVID-19. Other approved treatments include dexamethasone, remdesivir, tocilizumab, and Regeneron’s antibody cocktail.
The approval of Sotrovimab is a significant development in the fight against COVID-19 and provides hope for those who are at high risk of severe illness. However, the WHO reminds the public that prevention measures, such as wearing masks, social distancing, and getting vaccinated, are still crucial in controlling the spread of the virus.
As the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, the approval of Sotrovimab serves as a reminder that scientific advancements and global collaboration are key in overcoming this global health crisis.
