Remember when COVID-19 guidance seemed to change daily at the height of the pandemic? Back then, staying on top of new treatments and protocols felt like a full-time job. While things have settled down, updates are still rolling in. The FDA has recently revoked the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for four COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatments. These treatments, were once critical tools in our fight against the virus, but not anymore!

In an update shared on MSN, the FDA explained their decision to pull these EUAs because the treatments are no longer effective against the dominant circulating COVID-19 strains. With the virus continuously mutating, monoclonal antibodies that once worked well have become obsolete. It’s a reminder that while science provides solutions, it’s always a game of staying one step ahead of the virus.

But what exactly does it mean when the FDA revokes an EUA? Emergency Use Authorization is a process that allows unapproved medical products to be used during public health emergencies when no approved alternatives exist. However, the FDA continually reviews these treatments to ensure they remain effective and safe. When science shows a treatment is no longer useful, the FDA pulls the plug. The archived information on the EUA process can be explored in more detail on the FDA’s official page.

The key takeaway here is clear: We must remain adaptable as new variants of COVID-19 emerge. While these monoclonal antibody treatments served their purpose, they now join a growing list of tools that have been retired as the pandemic evolves. Staying informed and ensuring we are using approved treatments and implementing appropriate prevention strategies will be key to protecting residents.

At the end of the day, it’s about being prepared and responsive—because this virus isn’t taking a break anytime soon.

Stay well and stay informed!