Minister implored to consider new evidence and recommend ivermectin for COVID-19
25 June 2021
The civil rights organisation AfriForum and the I Can Make a Difference group of doctors today directed a letter to the acting Minister of Health. In the letter, the two organisations implore her to consider new evidence, to avoid a type II error decision and to take the necessary steps to recommend, promote and ensure prevention and effective early treatment of COVID-19. This includes the use of ivermectin (in combination with other substances as required) and by ensuring its availability.
This comes as the authorities are not taking any urgent action to practically promote and employ repurposed medicine for prophylaxis and early treatment of COVID-19. This despite the raging wave of COVID-19 infections and the Gauteng healthcare system experiencing severe pressure due to the increase in hospitalisations.
“The latest published evidence shows that 6 out of 10 lives can be saved by using ivermectin. The evidence is overwhelming. This is a well-known, inexpensive drug. It is also a safe drug – exactly what are we waiting for,” says Dr Naseeba Kathrada, founder of the I Can Make a Difference group of doctors.
The two organisations drew the minister’s attention to an article titled “Ivermectin for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis to inform clinical guidelines” that was published online in the American Journal of Therapeutics on 19 June. The authors found that ivermectin reduced the risk of death by an average of 62% and probably reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection by an average of 86%. It concludes that
[i]vermectin is likely to be an equitable, acceptable, and feasible global intervention against COVID-19. Health professionals should strongly consider its use, in both treatment and prophylaxis.
“An example of a type I error is to decide to use a medicine that turns out to be ineffective. A type II error is to not use a medicine that turns out to be effective. What are the consequences for citizens if you do not employ a medicine that could reduce the risk of death by an average of 62% and of infection by an average of 86%?” asks Barend Uys, Head of Research at AfriForum.
The result of a risk/benefit analysis for ivermectin is clear: It is safe and can make a positive difference. There is no reason to delay the use of this medication for prevention as well as treatment.
“We are not living in normal times. We are fighting a war against a deadly virus. Citizens require decisive action. The minister must avoid a decision that will cause harm to citizens,” concludes Uys.
Barend Uys
Head: Research
AfriForum
Dr Naseeba Kathrada
Founder
I Can Make a Difference
Statement issued by 25 June 2021
