MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — A WVU Medicine doctor has received federal approval for an experimental treatment for the coronavirus.
Dr. Brian Peppers’ proposed treatment option involves using convalescent donor plasma; a study shows plasma from people who have recovered from COVID-19 can be given to patients with the virus.
Peppers explained to WAJR-AM antibodies recognize the coronavirus, and stick to it.
“It tells the body to get rid of it in a more efficient manner,” he added.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the trial. Similar tests have been used to treat Ebola, swine flu and bird flu.
“We are trying to secure the plasma to come back to West Virginia to be used regionally and locally, but also contribute to the national effort,” Peppers said. “Throughout history, it is virus dependent. With other coronaviruses, it has shown benefits.”
Peppers said bodies are also capable of retaining the “memory” of the coronavirus strain, which will affect how bodies respond to the virus.