State requests federal help

Texas officials have requested federal aid for increased COVID-19 testing and treatment following reports that the state is running low on the antibody treatment that has proved most effective against the omicron variant.

Gov. Greg Abbott said the Texas Division for Emergency Management and the Texas Department of State Health Services made the request.

They are seeking federal resources for additional COVID-19 testing

locations in six counties, increased medical personnel and more sotrovimab, the monoclonal antibody treatment that has proved most effective against omicron.

Abbott called on the Biden administration “to step up in this fight and provide the resources necessary to help protect Texans.”