The World Health Organization (WHO) reiterates that there is not yet a specific antiviral treatment whose safety and effectiveness are proven to treat COVID-19. Corticosteroids and medical oxygen remain essential in saving the lives of patients with severe cases of COVID-19. If a traditional medicine product is found to be safe, effective and of guaranteed quality in randomized clinical trials, it will be considered for inclusion in WHO guidelines as a recommendation. The completion of the clinical trial in Madagascar provides data that the Committee of Experts will examine shortly and will give an independent scientific opinion on the results obtained, in accordance with the standards and procedures for clinical trials, and will advise on the next steps, as indicated to the Madagascar Government during the preparation of the clinical trial. WHO recognizes that traditional, complementary and alternative medicine has many advantages and that Africa has a long history of traditional medicine and traditional healers who play an important role in providing healthcare to the public.

Source: The Guardian July 06, 2021 07:18 UTC