San Diegans now has an additional option to access treatment that significantly reduces symptoms for patients with COVID-19, with the opening of a monoclonal antibody treatment center (MARC) in Chula Vista today.
Treatment is available free of charge, regardless of health insurance or immigration status, and a doctor is not required. San Diego County and San Ysidro Health have worked with federal, state and community partners to open the new facility inside the former Chula Vista # 5 fire station. This is the second MARC facility in the county.
The FDA has authorized the use of combination monoclonal antibody therapies to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and children. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the ability of the immune system to fight viruses. Combination therapy has been shown to significantly reduce hospital visits and death in patients with COVID-19 positive if given within 10 days of the onset of symptoms. It can also help people return to work and return to life without the persistent symptoms of COVID-19.
At the beginning of February, the Palomar MARC Medical Center in the city center became the first in the county dedicated to this treatment model. Intravenous treatment lasts less than an hour and is intended for people at high risk of serious complications from COVID-19. Patients or providers can call (619) 685-2500 to schedule an appointment at any of the sites. The MARC Center at San Ysidro Health is open from 8:00 to 17:00, seven days a week.