South Africa is taking part in a research trial to find treatment for the COVID-19. This is according to the health department.
“We are pleased that South Africa is participating in the Public Health Emergency Solidarity Trial that has been initiated by the World Health Organisation to conduct a clinical trial to find effective treatment for COVID-19,” the department said in a statement.
Experts have identified treatment options including Remdesivir : a drug which was previously used in an Ebola trial; Lopinavir/ritonavir : a licensed treatment for HIV/AIDS, Lopinavir/ritonavir with interferon beta-1a : used for multiple sclerosis; chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine : drugs used to treat malaria and rheumatology conditions respectively.
The health department said the South African Solidarity research team is led by Professors Helen Rees and Jeremy Nel, working 30 senior academics, researchers and clinicians from eight medical schools in the country.
These experts will commence the study in fourteen leading hospitals across the country.
In addition, the department says flu vaccines are understocked.
However, it says after engaging with the pharmaceutical industry “it became clear that the distribution of this vaccine has to be rationalized and prioritized. We have therefore taken a decision that health workers in the country will be given priority in receiving the flu vaccine.”
South Africa has recorded two deaths and 1280 cases of COVID-19.
– Coronavirus Hotline Number: 0800 029 999 from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
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The NICD has another Clinician Hotline to improve #COVID19 communication and support for healthcare providers. The Clinician Hotline is 0800 11 1131, operating 24 hrs. The Public Hotline is 0800 029 999 also operating 24hrs.
In other news – Inside A-Reece’s sweet 23rd Birthday celebration – Pictures
Mzansi rapper A-Reece was born on the 27th of March and he just celebrated his birthday in a smart, simple and sweet way two days ago.
He turned 23 years old and we wish him many years and blessings in his life, and it is truly a blessing, as so many people passed on without reaching such an age. Taking to social media he shared how he celebrated his special day and it looks he enjoyed it. continue reading
Source: eNCA
