News

As of Dec. 22, 2021, the Maryland Department of Health, based on recommendations from the Federal Health and Human Services (HHS), has paused federal allocation of bamlavinimab/etesevimab and Regen-COV, the agents that have been used for monoclonal antibody infusion therapy for COVID-19. This is due to new information that these treatments may not be effective against the new Omicron variant.

Across the country, sites have been directed to stop administration of the bam/ete and Regen-COV effective Dec. 23. Meritus Health will comply with this immediately and await further information and direction.

“We understand this news will be concerning to members of our community who may be waiting to receive this therapy,” says Carrie Adams, chief transformation officer for Meritus Health. “While we must comply with this direction from the state, we are committed to the care and support of patients in our community.”

Adams said there are some potential alternative agents and that Meritus Health is assessing options for obtaining them for other therapies as soon as possible.

Sotrovimab is the other monoclonal antibody therapy approved for treatment that is still shown to be effective for the Omicron variant. There has been limited availability in the U.S. and it is not something that is readily available in Maryland or at Meritus Health. Leaders are working diligently to acquire any supply of this therapy to provide treatment for the local community.

Meritus Health staff will attempt to call impacted patients directly and Adams says team members are working closely with community physicians to share possible care options for patients.

The public may continue to check for updates on this website in the COVID-19 resources section.