ATLANTA — With more people testing positive for COVID-19, clinical trials are one of a number of new options for patients to consider.

Research into new treatments for the virus are taking place across the state, but these trials need more volunteers.

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When Mike McDaniel got COVID-19, he signed up for a clinical trial in California.

“It hit our family like a ton of bricks. We had to immediately isolate,” he told Channel 2′s Linda Stouffer.

That same study is now looking for more patients through a clinic in Sandy Springs.

“Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory and administered to the patients to help fight against the virus,” said Dr. Vasundhara Cheekati, the principal investigator on the trial. “Minimizing the risk of progress of symptoms duration and transmission to other people also, that’s what we’re looking into this study for.”

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This trial is officially called the “Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines” or “ACTIV” trials. These include treatments the FDA has approved for emergency use.

The National Institutes of Health database currently shows more than 100 COVID-19 related drug and treatment trials in Georgia.

“I had COVID. It was a terrible experience, but if that condition could be used to help other people by participating in this trial, then I’m all for it,” McDaniel said.

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Clinical trials have potential risks and side effects, so talk with your doctor before joining one.

You can find a clinical trial near you by visiting the Department of Health and Human Services website here.

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