Antibody Therapy Shows Promise in Preventing Severe Bird Flu in Monkeys

Researchers find that a broadly neutralizing antibody could offer protection against H5N1 and aid in pandemic preparedness.

A University of Pittsburgh-led study demonstrated that the antibody MEDI8852 effectively prevents severe disease and death from H5N1 bird flu in monkeys.
The antibody targets a stable region of the virus, making it less susceptible to mutation and potentially effective against emerging variants.
Protection lasted 8–12 weeks in pre-treated monkeys, suggesting possible applications for first responders and caregivers during outbreaks.
H5N1 has infected over 950 people globally since 1997, with more than half of cases proving fatal, and recent genetic analysis indicates the virus is adapting to mammals.
The findings establish a testing threshold for antibody levels, which could aid in developing universal flu vaccines and future treatments for humans.