A 3D graphic representation of the novel coronavirus. [Provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Q: How will the new therapy help the fight against COVID-19?

Zhang: The antibody therapy is mainly used to treat patients with mild or moderate symptoms and those at a high risk of developing severe symptoms, including patients with severe underlying health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It can reduce the rate of hospitalization and death by 80 percent.

The antibody drug not only prevents the virus from penetrating cells, but also boosts our immunity because the antibody itself is part of our immune system.

The antibody drug is immediately effective once administered intravenously. It can stay alive in the human body for nine to 12 months. So it has great potential in preventing infection.

It is especially useful for high-risk groups, such as frontline medical workers and people not suitable for vaccination due to weak immune systems, liver and kidney problems and underlying health problems.