Passive immunization with antibodies has been shown to prevent a wide varie
ty of diseases. Recent advances in monoclonal antibody technology are enabl
ing the development of new methods for passive immunization of mucosal surf
aces. Human monoclonal antibodies, produced rapidly, inexpensively, and in
large quantities, may help prevent respiratory, diarrheal, and sexually tra
nsmitted diseases on a public health scale.