UK government has approved a new Covid treatment that uses a pair of laboratory-made antibodies to attack the virus.
The drug Ronapreve will prevent infection and reduce the need for hospital treatment.
It was famously used as part of the suite of experimental medicines given to US President Donald Trump last year.
Sajid Javid, UK Health Secretary, said that he hoped it would be rolled out to patients soon.
Javid said he is confident a coronavirus booster campaign can start next month across the UK.
However, the government is waiting on final advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, before giving further details.
The JCVI met on Thursday to discuss the potential for boosters for the most vulnerable.
But officials told the PA news agency that boosters was not discussed at the meeting. Although, they would not confirm what was spoken about.
Dr Samantha Atkinson, from the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, said: “We are satisfied that this treatment is safe and effective.”
It is expected to be used by the NHS soon. However, the drug is expensive and Covid is still common so it is unclear who will get it.
Thousands of Covid Deaths For Years
Britain faces the prospect of thousands of annual Covid deaths for years to come, scientists have warned.
Scientists said that the UK might learn to live with thousands of Covid-related deaths for years to come.
The Covid-19 vaccines don’t seem to be a long term solution for the health crisis as new variants emerge. People will have to live with it.
Seasonal waves of the virus are expected to sweep the country every winter. It will join other seasonal viruses, including influenza. However, it is believed that it is likely to kill those with underlying conditions with the provided vaccines.
The numbers of Covid cases seem to establish through this summer, but it is expected to rise again, causing a fourth wave this autumn. This is expected to occur yearly for a while.
