The Lagos State Government will be conducting a clinical trial on the effectiveness of chloroquine in the prevention and management of Coronavirus.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi.
Abayomi explained the clinical trial was initiated against the background of the fast-spreading news that chloroquine could be effective in preventing and managing coronavirus.
The Commissioner, however, said that the effectiveness of the drug has not yet been ascertained.
He also added the state was still watching the global research space to clearly define the efficiency of the drug in the control of the disease.
“We do not have any hard evidence that chloroquine is effective in preventing or managing COVID19. We are watching the global research space to clearly define its efficiency in COVID19.
“Chloroquine has significant side effects and should not be used without medical supervision; as it may cause more harm than good.
“Citizens should take the advice of their physicians and await the directive of the Ministry of Health on the use of chloroquine and not use it without medical supervision,” he said.
The commissioner urged the public not to panic but strictly abide by the instructions of the government.
Abayomi appealed to citizens not to take advantage of the present situation as it affects coronavirus to hike or hoard domestic consumables and enrich themselves.
He, however, urged members of the public to continue to be their brother’s keeper; as well as join hands with the government to curtail the spread of the virus.
“It is condemnable to use this situation to enrich yourselves; by hoarding or hiking the prices of domestic consumables for profiteering. We should be responsible citizens in the quest to make Lagos disease-free”, he said.
