The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Eli Lilly’s antibody therapy. It targets the coronavirus (COVID-19). It’s on an emergency basis.
The FDA statement says “Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses.”
Antibody therapy “kick starts” an immune response. Patience receives in a medical facility.
And it’s an important addition to the war chest for doctors.
There are several key steps to take to reduce the spread of the virus. They are social distancing, wearing a mask, hand washing and to avoid touching of the face.
Masks are key. And we have underscored this since the beginning. We collected our first data on masks in January, 2020. And in February, 2020, we began regularly conducting surveys.
Here are the key mask messages. Please share them.
Masks Protect the Person Wearing the Mask
Masks protect us from the virus. This is key.
Masks Protect Others, too
Masks also protect others, too. It can be days before symptoms appear. Yet, you could still spread it. Also, some people carry the virus but never experience symptoms themselves.
Masks Telegraph a Key Health Message
A mask is a health message. Wearing one telegraphs an important health message.
A mask reminds the person wearing it that the virus is serious. It also reminds others of the same message, too. Please set a positive example for others. Wear a mask.
A Face Shield Alone is not enough
A face shield alone will not stop COVID-19. Here is why.
We first published this story on September 2. It is worth repeating.
A simple study shows the limits of a plastic face shield. And they will not protect us from the virus. Nor protect others. It was done at the Florida Atlantic University.
However, wearing a face mask with the face shield does work.
Face shields have some advantages. Experts point out that a face shield will protect the eyes and discourage touching of the face.
Testing is also key.
Art by Julia