Source: Fox News
TAMPA, Fla. – Frontline healthcare workers in Tampa are participating in a clinical trial to see if a drug being used to treat COVID-19 can actually prevent the virus. It is part of a nationwide research program by HERO (Healthcare Worker Exposure Response and Outcomes) on hydroxychloroquine, an FDA-approved drug commonly used to treat malaria.
“Does this hydroxychloroquine medication work to prevent COVID-19?” said Dr. Seetha Lakshmi, an associate hospital epidemiologist at Tampa General Hospital and an assistant professor at USF Health.
That’s the question nearly 190 healthcare workers at Tampa General Hospital, including Dr. Lakshmi, hope to help answer. They will participate in an eight-week clinical trial for the drug’s effectiveness.
“Beyond PPE, personal protective equipment, there’s not much that they can do to protect themselves, and if this drug works, it will be a great resource or weapon against the pandemic,” said Lakshmi.
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