Photo: GettyAn Australian-first trial aims to "once and for all" settle the science surrounding an antimalarial drug touted by US President Donald Trump as protection from Covid-19. The "Covid shield" study, led by Melbourne's Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, has recruited more than 100 healthcare workers to test the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine. Prof Pellegrini said it was clear the Melbourne outbreak had compromised healthcare workers, with 2607 total infections across the Victorian sector as of Friday. Staff pressures could not be avoided as "large numbers" of health workers had to be furloughed following outbreaks, he said. But state opposition leader Mark O'Brien is adamant more resources are needed in hospitals to protect healthcare workers.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 21, 2020 21:56 UTC