On medical solutions to COVID-19

WITH much of the world still under a COVID-19 induced lockdown, the race is on to find a vaccine.  More than 100 around the world are now being developed, with six already undergoing clinical trials. Despite this number however, it will take some time before any of these initiatives lead to something ready for mass production and global distribution. 

In hopes of fast-tracking the process, the United Nations, several world leaders and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation recently launched a global collaboration between governments, pharmaceutical companies and other private sector actors to end the pandemic through more effective diagnostics, treatments, and more importantly a vaccine.  Part of the initiative is a global pledging effort to raise up to US$8.1 billion — roughly P411 billion — for medical research in these areas. 

In fact, we are already contributing to the global pandemic response in no small way. Our government is working so that clinical trials for Avigan — or the anti-influenza drug Favipiravir developed by Toyama Chemical Co. under Fujifilm Holdings — can be conducted here before the end of the month. If successful, Avigan can then be used to hasten the recovery of patients. Fujifilm aims to boost production of Avigan to have enough supply to treat 300,000 patients a month by September.

Aside from Avigan, our country will also participate in World Health Organization (WHO) “Solidarity” clinical trials for four other drugs — namely the new remdesivir; lopinavor or ritonavir which are used against HIV; interferon; and chloroquine (which was developed as an antimalarial medication). 

One interesting development is an initiative funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD).  Under this project, Dr. Fabian M. Dayrit has been researching on whether certain coconut oil components, such as lauric acid, can help in the fight against COVID-19. Samples are already being prepared for testing by the Duke-National University of Singapore. The project paper said that lauric acid and its derivative, monolaurin, have been known for many years to have significant antiviral activity. If this proves true, then it is a significant development in the fight against COVID-19.

Clearly, the world’s scientists and researchers are working double time to come up with the proper treatment or vaccine. That fact alone should provide some modicum of hope in the face of a global pandemic.  We must remember however that all these efforts will take some time before anything useful emerges. And as such, we must do what we can to stay healthy amidst this pandemic. 
First, we should follow WHO guidelines and government regulation on wearing facemasks. It is important that we wear a mask, particularly when we are near people who may be or are already sick, or when we are visiting loved ones considered high-risk.  Facemasks can lower infection rates significantly, as it can stop the wearer from infecting others through coughing or sneezing. This is particularly important as some people are asymptomatic or may have a mild version of COVID-19 that presents as a cough or a cold.

Second, it is important to wash our hands frequently, especially if we have traveled to places where there is a possibility that surfaces may have been contaminated.  The virus may be present in small droplets from exhalations, sneezes or coughing from carriers. If these droplets are on the surface of objects, and they transfer to your hand through touch, proper handwashing with soap and water can stop the virus from spreading even more.

Third, we must endeavor to keep healthy and boost our immune system. In a recent Zoom meeting I had with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., one of members suggested that aside from rice and other relief goods, vitamin supplements that boost immunity should also be provided to households by the government. 

This has some factual basis, as vitamins A, C, D, and E have shown potential in treating various conditions related to the immune system. Exercise, too, is important. The WHO even has guidelines: adults over 18 years of age should do at lest 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activities, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity.
Finally, we should always, always practice physical distancing, keeping an optimum of six feet away from each other in public spaces as best we can. This will make sure that even the inadvertent cough or sneeze’s effects can be minimized.
As we wait for medical science to come up with  solutions, it is incumbent for the rest of us to stay healthy and effectively limit the spread of the virus. Indeed, even in the face of a global pandemic, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a ton of cure.

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Sen. Sonny Angara has been in public service for 15 years — nine years as Representative of the Lone District of Aurora, and six as Senator. He has authored and sponsored more than 200 laws.  He is currently serving his second term in the Senate. (Email: sensonnyangara@yahoo.com| Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @sonnyangara/PN)