Published 11:24 IST, March 24th 2020
Donald Trump says unproven drug for coronavirus could be 'gift from God'
US President Donald Trump has said that antimalarial drugs which are currently under investigation to treat the deadly coronavirus could be a “gift from God”.
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United States President Donald Trump has said that antimalarial drugs which are currently under investigation to treat deadly coronavirus could be a “gift from God” despite warnings by scientists against over-exaggeration of unproven medicines. While COVID-19 pandemic is tightening its grip across world including US, Trump had said last week that his administration was working to significantly expand access to hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, a related compound after early studies in France and China found that drugs had helped patient suffering from diseases caused by fatal virus.
While many scientists including Anthony Fauci, leading infectious disease expert in US have urged citizens to remain cautious until larger clinical trials actually validate smaller studies. But, Trump on contrary showcased confidence nad demonstrated such restraint at White House press briefing on March 23 (local time).
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US President said, “ hydroxychloroquine and Z-Pak, I think as a combination probably is looking very, very good," he said. "re's a real chance that it could have a tremendous impact, it would be a gift from God if that worked it would be a big game changer.” while also quoting patient who was ill but recovered after taking drug.
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Trump criticised for overhyping drugs
According to international reports, Trump has been criticised by some in scientific community for overhyping drugs which could create shorts for US citizens who need m to treat lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, diseases for which y are approved. Meanwhile, New York is also set to begin clinical trial on March 24 that would treat patients with hydroxychloroquine taken toger with azithromycin, an antibiotic used to clear secondary bacterial infections.
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Moreover, US Vice President Mike Pence anunced that self-administered nasal swab for illness would be made available this week. refore, assuring reduction of sudden burden on country’s health care system. Presently, coronavirus tests are administered by health care workers wearing personal protective gear which is also struggling with shorts in supply.
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(With ncy inputs)
11:23 IST, March 24th 2020