No Scientific Proof To Back Nigerian-U.S based Doctor's Claims On COVID-19 Cure

The Guild of Medical Directors has dismissed the claims of US-based Nigerian doctor Stella Immanuel that hydroxychloroquine can cure COVID-19.

President of the guild Prof. Olufemi Babalola said in a statement on Tuesday that the video where Immanuel made the claim was part of a news conference organised by America’s Frontline Doctors, a group founded by Dr Simone Gold, a board-certified physician and attorney.

According to him, the group came together to disseminate a “massive disinformation campaign” about the coronavirus pandemic.

Immanuel had said in a video which went viral on Monday that she treated over 350 patients in her clinic in Houston, Texas with the combination of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), zinc and Zithromax.

But Babalola said: “People must understand that there is no scientific evidence, but just her (Immanuel) own personal unsubstantiated claims.

“The important point of course, is to note that medical research has subjected HCQ to intense research.

“While some studies suggest that it is effective, others have come to the opposite conclusion.

“It is also true that Senegal, where HCQ is routinely used, has one of the lowest COVID-19 case fatality rates in the world at 0.64 per cent compared to 3.4 per cent in the U.S.

“As we speak, a study is underway in Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos, on its efficacy and safety.

“Subsequently, a meta-analysis of all these studies should be undertaken to pool all the results together, and come up with a summative analysis, which will guide clinicians.”

According to him, the guild which comprises owners of private hospitals in Nigeria is collectively responsible for the management of about 70 per cent of the healthcare delivery.

He advised Nigerians to strictly adhere to all medical guidelines through practising social distancing, wearing of face mask and frequent proper hand hygiene.