Monoclonal antibodies are man-made antibodies produced in a laboratory that can mimic the human immune system response to infection. mAbs are designed to block viral attachment and entry into human cells, thus neutralizing the virus that causes COVID-19.

Louisiana is experiencing multiple crises that may be leaving residents with feelings of grief, fear, anxiety, depression or anger. From the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Laura, to COVID-19, to Hurricane Ida, emotions are strong and it may be helpful to talk to someone.

One death was of a child between the ages of 0 and 4, and one death was of a child between the ages of 12 and 17. No further information will be released on these deaths.

Community-based testing and vaccine sites operated by the Office of Public Health and the Louisiana Army National Guard will close early today in preparation for impacts from Tropical Storm Ida.

Ivermectin is commonly used in animals to treat or prevent parasites. The FDA has not approved or authorized ivermectin for cases of COVID-19.

Today, the Louisiana Department of Health confirms the death of a child under the age of 1 - the first of the fourth surge of COVID-19 in the state, which is largely driven by the stronger, more contagious Delta variant and the state's lower vaccination rates.

Residents requiring assistance can call the Bring Back Louisiana COVID-19 vaccine hotline at 1-855-453-0774 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

LDH has published the list of participating providers, along with their locations and contact information, on its website at covidvaccine.la.gov. In addition to these providers, community vaccination events are taking place across the state and are also listed on LDH's website.

"Today's FDA approval of the Pfizer vaccine, now marketed as Comirnaty, is yet another historic moment in our journey out of this COVID-19 pandemic. This full FDA approval of the first COVID vaccine follows months of clinical trials and millions upon millions of real-world doses safely administered across the globe. This vaccine is well researched, very safe and highly effective at preventing serious COVID illness, hospitalization and death," Gov. Edwards said.

Testing is for ages 3 and older. If you have been exposed or have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested.