WHO warns against use of Ivermectin a day after Goa approves its use for treating COVID-19

A day after Goa government approved the use of Ivermectin in treating COVID-19 patients in the state, the World Health Organisation on Tuesday has warned against its use.

“Safety and efficacy are important when using any drug for a new indication. @WHO recommends against the use of ivermectin for Covid-19 except within clinical trials,” Soumya Swaminathan, the global health body’s chief scientist, said in a tweet.

On Monday, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has said all adults in the state will be given Ivermectin drug to prevent complications arising out of the Covid-19 infection.

The minister had said the tablet would be made available at all the District, Sub-district, PHCs, CHCs, Sub Health Centers, RMDs as well as GMC so that the people could come and collect the medications and start the treatment immediately, irrespective of any symptoms or anything.  (Inputs from UNI)