The next generation of immune defense

Viral respiratory diseases — like the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 — can be especially dangerous for older adults, people with chronic health conditions, or those with weakened immune systems. For family caregivers, this can make protecting a loved one from getting sick a constant concern.

In the past, families have had limited ways to reduce the risk of infection. Now, therapies such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are available to help treat and protect against serious viral respiratory illnesses.

For family caregivers and those they care for, these advances could mean more choice in how they can prevent illness, providing additional protections that can reduce risk and provide peace of mind.

As more mAbs become available, caregivers and patients can work with their healthcare providers to decide which form of treatment and immunization is right for them.

What are mAbs?

Monoclonal antibodies, or mAbs, are proteins designed to enhance the body’s natural immune system. They work by blocking the process that causes infection from disease cells.1

Doctors have already used monoclonal antibodies to treat a number of different health conditions including COVID and RSV. New research is now exploring how they can also help prevent similar infectious diseases.

For family caregivers and their loved ones, this means there may be more ways to stay protected. Along with vaccines and antiviral medications, monoclonal antibodies can provide another layer of protection. Having more options allows families and healthcare providers to choose the prevention or treatment approach that best fits each patient’s needs.2

Monoclonal antibodies

The Benefits Behind mAbs

Natural Immunity

Antibodies are part of the body’s natural defense system that help fight off germs and viruses. mAbs are designed to strengthen that protection by giving the immune system extra help. They work to quickly recognize and block certain viruses. In some cases, they can also provide protection that lasts longer than the body’s natural response alone.3

Help Keep Families Safe

mAbs have been used in medicine for more than 50 years to help treat diseases such as cancer and autoimmune conditions. Having been studied and used for decades, mAbs are established among doctors who rely on them as part of patient care.3

Expand Options for Health

New innovations give families more choices for protecting their health and preventing disease. Caregivers and their loved ones can talk with their doctors about the different treatment and immunization options available and choose the approach that best fits their unique health needs and situation.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

  • Finding the Right Doctor

    Step-by-step guidance to help people with autoimmune or chronic illness find the right doctor, including what type of specialist to see, where to search, and how to advocate for yourself in care.

Caregiver Action Network

Help bring innovative options to more families

Stay up to date on immune protection and join us in advocating for expanded access to innovations like mAbs.

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1. Castelli MS, McGonigle P, Hornby PJ. The pharmacology and therapeutic applications of monoclonal antibodies. Pharmacol Res Perspect. 2019 Dec;7(6):e00535. doi: 10.1002/prp2.535. PMID: 31859459; PMCID: PMC6923804.

2. Otsubo R, Yasui T. Monoclonal antibody therapeutics for infectious diseases: Beyond normal human immunoglobulin. Pharmacol Ther. 2022 Dec;240:108233. doi: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108233. Epub 2022 Jun 20. PMID: 35738431; PMCID: PMC9212443.

3. National Cancer Institute (U.S.). Monoclonal Antibodies (https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/immunotherapy/monoclonal-antibodies). Posted 9/24/2025.