OSDH working to secure monoclonal, oral COVID-19 treatment resources amid recent surge

OSDH team working clock to secure additional COVID-19 treatment resources amid recent surge

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is committed to protecting the health and safety of all Oklahomans and continues to advocate for them by accessing all available resources throughout this pandemic and most recent surge.

We know that monoclonal antibodies and antiviral oral treatments are currently in limited supply across the state and nation. The OSDH team has been working diligently with federal partners to secure more of these treatments for those who are at high-risk for severe COVID-19. Late yesterday, Oklahoma was approved to receive additional 1,000 doses each of Regen-Cov and BAM/ETE monoclonal treatments. OSDH will continue requesting COVID related treatments until we have a sufficient supply.

With the surge in cases, we know testing is a vital tool. In response, OSDH has increased access for testing, including expanded hours, some weekend hours and additional clinics across the state, as well as utilizing mobile units. 

We also want to thank our partners who have stepped up expanding services to meet the needs of Oklahomans. Those seeking a test are encouraged to first use one of these testing sites or others available through oklahoma.gov/covid19/testing-sites, rather than visiting the emergency room. 

“We can’t put this pandemic in our rearview mirror yet,” said Keith Reed, interim commissioner of health. “Our team at OSDH is committed to making sure the right tools are in place through the state to fight the virus, and that we give Oklahomans the best shot at getting treatments they deserve if they get COVID-19.”

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its system of local health services and strategies focused on preventing disease. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 county health departments in Oklahoma, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city-county health departments in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more at Oklahoma.gov/health.