The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has lamented the high rate of purchase of chloroquine by Nigerians.
The PTF Chairman, Mr Boss Mustapha, while addressing reporters in Abuja on Thursday, said that the government had received reports of abuse and misuse of chloroquine as a cure for coronavirus.
Mustapha, however, called for caution of the citizens against self-medication, especially when they have the symptoms of COVID-19, stressing that the drug has not been certified for the treatment of the disease and could be harmful to such patients.
He said, “Through the surveillance system set up by the PTF, we have received reports that Nigerians have been purchasing hydroxychloroquine in large quantities.
“We wish to reiterate that this drug has not been certified for use in treating COVID-19 in Nigeria by the relevant health and pharmaceutical authorities. Self-medication of any kind is fraught with the danger of increasing risks of avoidable casualties.
“We, therefore strongly warn against self-medication. If you are sick, please seek medical advice and if you are confirmed positive, kindly self-isolate in an approved facility. The COVID-19 is highly infectious and dangerous.”