Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen announced on Wednesday April 8, 2020 that the province has established a $5 million fund for research into COVID-19.
Research Manitoba will be administering the fund.
“This new fund will support a clinical trial to determine if a commonly used drug can safely be used as a treatment for COVID-19,” said Friesen. “The fund will also provide support for local researchers to develop solutions to health-care issues in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Some of the projects that will be funded will test possible treatments in clinical trials to get a better understanding how the virus is developing in the province. This will help the health system react to different complications that are emerging around the world.
Tracey Maconachie, chair, Research Manitoba. “We are pleased to refocus our research efforts on vital clinical trials and potential interventions in the fight against COVID-19. Our world-renowned partners are conducting leading-edge research that could expedite treatments for Manitobans and all Canadians.”
$ 700,000 will be spent on testing whether or not the drug hydroxychloroquine can be used to prevent people from contracting COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine is currently used to treat rheumatology issues.
“We are building on the work of preliminary studies to look at how this drug could help fight the spread of COVID-19,” said Dr. Ryan Zarychanski, associate professor, department of internal medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba and department of medical oncology and hematology, CancerCare Manitoba. “We are asking Manitobans who meet the study’s criteria to consider joining this trial to help us scientifically prove the benefits for Manitobans and people around the world.”
“These investments will help contribute to the world’s understanding of the virus and make important strides toward vaccines, treatments and possible changes to our health system to better combat COVID-19,” said Friesen.
© News4.ca 2020
