Why do some resist COVID vaccines but embrace monoclonal antibodies?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As the delta surge struck all corners of Tennessee, briefly lifting the state’s coronavirus outbreak to the worst in the nation, millions of Tennesseans continued to spurn vaccines that are proven safe, effective, free and easy to get.

But many of these same residents have flocked to a different virus defense that is inferior by just about every important measurement, even according to its own advocates.

Monoclonal antibody treatment, while also safe and effective against COVID-19, provides protection that is temporary, less adaptable, harder to access and far more costly for taxpayers, and sometimes, patients themselves. The treatment only works in a narrow window after symptoms arise, and may in time become less effective if overused.