The World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has advised the Madagascar government after the country’s breakthrough on coronavirus (COVID-19).
Madagascar has started exporting its herbal solution to African countries.
It launched the drink in April, after weeks of testing on no fewer than 20 people.
The President’s Chief of Staff, Lova Ranoromaro, made the announcement.
But reacting to the development, Moeti wants the Madagascar government to take the product through clinical tests for safety and efficacy.
She also cautioned African countries against adopting a product that has not been through a clinical trial.
Moeti said this on Thursday during a media briefing on COVID-19 with WHO and the World Economic Forum (WEF).
“We are concerned about the impact that COVID19 will have on the ability of African countries to progress towards Universal Health Coverage,” Moeti said.
“We are advising the government of Madagascar to take this product through a clinical trial, and we are prepared to collaborate with them.
“We would caution and advise countries against adopting a product that has not been through clinical tests for safety and efficacy.
“We know that to stop the spread of this virus, and the key public health measures need to be in place in every community, even where cases have not been reported, readiness capacities should be prepositioned.
“There are now around 50,000 confirmed cases, and 2000 have lost their lives across the African continent, and it is incredibly important that countries use data-driven, evidence-based approaches in the response,” he said.