Despite this, Trump believes that the drug should used immediately to treat dying patients. Two of the top public officials spoke strongly against this claiming that the drug did not provide sufficient evidence prove itself effective, could potentially cause dangerous side effects, and that various studies are needed before making such a hasty decision. Ignoring this advice, Trump explained that he was advocating on his gut feeling. He explained that if the drug was proven to work through studies, it would've been a shame that they did not use it earlier. He then goes on to admit, "But what do I know? I'm not a doctor."
It's not unusual for Trump to defy scientific consensus (ex. Climate Change) but in such unpredictable times should we be approaching the issue of the virus with sporadic "gut feelings," that may prove to be effective? Or should we find a methodical approach, backed by professionals and scientists at the risk of a higher death count. It's hard to choose either side with confidence, but personally I think a methodical approach should be used. If the use of the drug is passed, I think it should be handled carefully and prescribed only to patients with critical conditions. If the drug were somehow kept on shelves to treat coronavirus, people who have rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions treated by the drug would have less accessibility to treat themselves.
Questions:
1. Should hydroxychloroquine be used? Why or why not.
5 comments:
With regards to the first question, I do think that in critical situations, hydroxychloroquine can be used. If the patient is about to die, I do not think considering side effects is that substantial of a counterargument against using the antimalarial drug. The first priority should be saving lives, and I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have this hydroxychloroquine as a last option. Now with that being said, I don’t think we should administer this stuff to everyone testing positive. We should use this as a last resort until we find a better treatment or receive the vaccine. I think Trump is desperate to proclaim a “savior” drug so that he can get the economy back up and running. Obviously the coronavirus is having a lasting impression on his presidency. Should he be re-elected in 2020 he will arguably have the hardest job in trying to get us out of this recession. I would also like to mention that I think we’re taking Trump too seriously. This man can’t really think for himself, he doesn’t have original ideas, and he feeds off of the sensationalization that news outlets provide him. I think the biggest problem with the media today is that they’re treating what he’s saying like it’s coming out of an actual politicians mouth, and not some rich buffoon.
What's funny about this topic is that over this weekend, on Sunday I think, Dr. Fauci and Peter Navarro had a showdown. Navarro stated that this drug could be a potential solution to COVID-19, however, there is no statistical evidence that declares this statement is true. Dr. Fauci argued that there were only anecdotal statements presented by scientists overseas and that we need more concrete evidence. This created a heated argument about whether or not Trump can mention this drug to being a "game-changer." Navarro argued that though he is not a physician he has a Ph.D. and knows how to read charts and make accurate claims even if he is a social scientist. Yikes. But things got worse as Navarro raised his voice and said that Fauci objected to Trump's travel restrictions, saying, "You were the one who early on objected to the travel restrictions with China," saying that travel restrictions don't work and that Navarro was one of the earliest to push the China travel ban. My thoughts? I would honestly just want Trump to stop talking about a drug, or any if there is no solid evidence indicating that it could potentially be a cure. He should rather rephrase it as something their administration is looking into, but of course, we know that every press conference is an opportunity for him to create a campaign speech and yell at reporters who ask fair questions. Therefore he is going to make himself look overly optimistic and the hope America needs but may not want if it's full of false information.
Like Carlos, I think that if someone is in critical condition, it would make sense to try using hydroxychloroquine, so I guess I kind of see where Trump is coming from. I honestly don’t know anything about this drug aside from what’s written in this post, but if someone is close to death, then why not try whatever gives them some kind of chance at life as a last ditch effort? Unless doctors and scientists find a way to mitigate the dangerous side effects, I think this is the only situation that it makes sense to administer the drug. However, I don’t agree with going against medical advice solely because of a gut feeling. In no time now more than ever is it more important to make decisions based on scientific and medical consensus. This is something that none of us have prepared for or are experienced in, so scientists are doctors should be the leaders in this situation, not a president and his gut feeling. If we want to get back to our normal lives as soon as possible, the coronavirus and treatment shouldn’t be seen as a political playing piece for Trump to tout during the election should a cure be found.
APPLAUSE FOR CARLOS 100% AGREE
Rewording what Carlos has said previously, I believe that using hydroxychloroquine as a last resort isn't such of a big of a deal. If a patient with covid-19 indeed is in critical condition, trying out hydroxychloroquine to see if it is effective or not is 100% worth a try. Despite the side effects that it could bring along, it most likely isn't as bad as dying. Using it for people who are suffering extremely is definitely worth a try, but it is probably not a good idea to use it on everyone tested positive if the drug has extreme side effects. Also, Trump's statement on how we should use hydroxychloroquine on patients because of his gut feeling isn't a very convincing argument. Noting his previous history with his actions, I think it is safe to assume that a large majority of America does not trust Trump's gut feeling. If Trump wanted to actually use hydroxychloroquine as a solution, he should have brought up arguments with statistics and with science instead of his "gut feeling".
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