Health Canada cautions against use of malaria drugs to treat COVID-19

Health Canada has cautioned against the use of malaria drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine to treat novel Coronavirus.

The Canadian health department said the two drugs may cause serious side effects, including serious heart rhythm problems.

However, it advised the use of the two drugs only if prescribed by a doctor.

Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can have serious side effects. These drugs should only be used under the supervision of a physician: https://t.co/ohNj1mqd8r #medsafety

Advertisement

— Health Canada and PHAC (@GovCanHealth) April 26, 2020

Moreover, France reported 369 more coronavirus deaths on Saturday, with the number of people in intensive dropping for the 17th day in a row.

While 22,614 people have died from the virus in France since the beginning of March.

According to the health officials, the mortality rate in hospitals recorded the lowest in a month, with 198 deaths in 24 hours.

However, 171 died in retirement and care homes.

Officials say that they felt worried by an increase in critically ill patients suffering from other conditions.