The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has warned Nigerians that chloroquine has not been approved for the treatment of the Coronavirus.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Director General of the NCDC, gave the warning in Abuja on Thursday, while reacting to recent media reports that suggests that chloroquine could protect people from COVID-19 or treat patients, NAN reports.
”Nigerians should please remember that the use of chloroquine and its derivatives for the management of COVID-19 disease has not been validated and approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO)”.
”There have been promising results by researchers, but until then, the drug is not approved for use for COVID-19 treatment.
”Nigerians should know that self-medication can cause harm and lead to death.
“Do not misuse drugs. We understand these are challenging times, and Nigerians may be worried. Still, the Federal Ministry of Health(FMoH), through the NCDC is doing everything it can to continue to ensure the safety and health security of every Nigerian.
“Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have not been licensed to treat COVID-19 related symptoms or prevent infection,” he said.
Meanwhile, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nigeria presently stands at 51.
While two patients have been discharged, Nigeria recorded one death, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC on Wednesday.
