DENVER — A monoclonal antibody treatment clinic by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) was supposed to be available in Denver on Friday and Saturday, but the clinic was unable to open Saturday.
The company Matrix, which CDPHE contracted to run the mobile clinic, said they had to cancel the clinic Wednesday but did not provide a reason.
CDPHE said they worked to notify patients who had an appointment of the cancellation.
>>Full statement from CDPHE:
“On Wednesday, Matrix, the company contracted to run monoclonal antibody mobile clinics, informed us that they would need to cancel today’s clinic. Matrix and CDPHE worked to notify patients who had an appointment. We apologize for the inconvenience and are working with the vendor to prevent problems in the future.”
The treatment was for those who are eligible and are referred by a medical professional.
The antibodies work by blocking the virus that causes COVID-19 from attaching to human cells, making it more difficult for the virus to reproduce and cause harm, according to UCHealth.
Those who test positive for the disease caused by COVID-19, have mild or moderate symptoms so far but are at high risk of developing severe illness qualify for the treatment that is meant to help keep people out of hospitals.
The state’s guidance for those who qualify include:
- People who are 65 years old or older.
- People who are obese or overweight. This includes adults with a BMI of 25 or more. Based on CDC growth charts, it also includes children aged 12 to 17 who have a BMI in the 85th percentile or higher for their age and gender.
- Pregnant people.
- People with certain underlying medical conditions.
Anyone who meets that criteria can reach out to their doctors or another health care provider to get a referral.
This clinic was held at the Tepeyac Community Health Center at 5075 Lincoln St. from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Those unable to attend this weekend’s clinic there can visit one of Colorado’s 161 providers offering the treatment.
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