WHO says too early to comment on remdesivir coronavirus trials

It is too early to comment on the remdesivir  “positive data” trial results released earlier on Wednesday, said Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) health emergencies programme.

“It’s always very important that we consider all publications related to them, it can sometimes take a number of publications to determine of the ultimate impact of a drug is,” Ryan noted.

“I think a lot more data will come out, we’re all hoping, and fervently hoping, that one or more of the treatments currently under observation and under trial will result in altering clinical outcomes and improving clinical outcomes,”

Earlier the day, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, the technical lead for the coronavirus response with WHO, explained the Organisation generally pulls together all the evidence from several studies, will review it and critique it.

Currently, WHO is conducting “living reviews” on about 30 topics right now, in peer-reviewed journals and publications, Van Kerkhove added.

“Typically, you don’t have one study that will come out that will be a game changer,” she said.

If one proves to be a game changer, WHO will adjust its guidance, Van Kerkhove stressed.

“But there is a process for this to take place and we’re really grateful for all of the scientists and experts that work with us to, to help us develop this guidance and understand all of this research that’s coming out.”

Earlier the day, Gilead Sciences said it is “aware of positive data emerging from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases’ (NIAID) study of the investigational antiviral remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19.”