The Government is investing in rapid research for treatments and vaccines. On 26 March it announced an extra £210 million of new UK aid funding – the largest single contribution by any country to the key international fund to find a coronavirus vaccine. It will ensure British scientists and researchers continue to lead the global fight against the virus.
Clinical trials are ongoing to test chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine as part of a treatment programme for COVID-19, or to prevent infection. While these clinical trials are ongoing, no conclusions have been reached on the safety and effectiveness of this medicine. Until there is clear, definitive evidence that these treatments are safe and effective for treatment of COVID-19, they should only be used for this purpose within a clinical trial.
I know that this is a worrying time, but I urge members of the public to follow guidance to stay at home unless absolutely essential, and to practice good hygiene. These measures will save lives.
