US Makes Experimental Ebola Treatment Available to Americans

Americans who've been exposed to Ebola during the Central African outbreak now have access to a groundbreaking treatment that could save their lives.

The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Thursday that a promising antibody therapy called MBP-134 will be available to any American who has high-risk contact with the virus. The treatment, developed by San Diego-based Mapp Biopharmaceuticals, has shown impressive results in animal testing and requires just a single dose.

The therapy comes as an American doctor, Peter Stafford, recovers in Germany after contracting Ebola while working in the outbreak zone. His wife and four children were safely quarantined, while another doctor from the same missionary group remains healthy in quarantine in the Czech Republic.

What makes MBP-134 special is its ability to fight multiple strains of Ebola. The current outbreak is caused by Bundibugyo ebolavirus, a rare version that's only emerged three times in recorded history. Testing in primates shows the treatment works against Bundibugyo as well as the more common Zaire and Sudan strains.

The World Health Organization's expert panel has prioritized MBP-134 as one of the most promising treatments to test during this outbreak. The antibody therapy represents years of research by a company specifically founded to tackle global health emergencies and biological threats.

While the treatment hasn't yet undergone clinical trials in humans, the FDA is allowing its emergency use for Americans at high risk. The agency's investigational use mechanisms exist precisely for situations like this, where promising treatments could make the difference between life and death.

The Bright Side

This announcement shows how years of quiet investment in medical preparedness are paying off when it matters most. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, which funded MBP-134's development, exists to ensure treatments are ready before crises hit.

The stockpile of doses means healthcare workers and aid volunteers can serve in outbreak zones knowing protection exists if they're exposed. That security could encourage more medical professionals to help where they're needed most.

Researchers are hopeful MBP-134 will be included in clinical trials during this outbreak, which would provide the final proof needed to make it widely available. Each trial brings us closer to turning Ebola from a death sentence into a treatable disease.

Protection is ready when Americans need it most.