What is an antibody cocktail?
The therapy is literally a cocktail of two monoclonal antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that the body generates to defend itself against any disease. Monoclonal antibodies are artificially created in a laboratory and tailor-made to fight a particular disease.
Casirivimab and imdevimab, which are part of the antibody cocktail produced by Switzerland-based Roche, are specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. They block the virus's attachment and subsequent entry into human cells. Using two antibodies protects against the body's resistance to them.
Self-care
Asymptomatic cases, mild cases of COVID-19:
Isolate yourself in a well ventilated room.
Use a triple layer medical mask, discard mask after 8 hours of use or earlier if they become wet or visibly soiled. In the event of a caregiver entering the room, both caregiver and patient may consider using N 95 mask.
Mask should be discarded only after disinfecting it with 1% Sodium Hypochlorite.
Take rest and drink a lot of fluids to maintain adequate hydration.
Follow respiratory etiquettes at all times.
Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 40 seconds or clean with alcohol-based sanitizer.
Don’t share personal items with other people in the household.
Ensure cleaning of surfaces in the room that are touched often (tabletops, doorknobs, handles, etc.) with 1% hypochlorite solution.
Monitor temperature daily.
Monitor oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter daily.
Connect with the treating physician promptly if any deterioration of symptoms is noticed.
Instructions for caregivers:
Mask: The caregiver should wear a triple layer medical mask. N95 mask may be considered when in the same room with the ill person.
Hand hygiene: Hand hygiene must be ensured following contact with ill person or patient’s immediate environment.
Exposure to patient/patient’s environment: Avoid direct contact with body fluids of the patient, particularly oral or respiratory secretions. Use disposable gloves while handling the patient. Perform hand hygiene before and after removing gloves.