Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has welcomed the availability of an anti-viral drug for the treatment of COVID-19.

The Remdesivir drug, currently undergoing clinical trials around the world, has been shown to potentially shorten recovery time from COVID-19 by about four days. It will be made available to patients who meet certain clinical criteria to support their recovery in hospital.

“This announcement is to be welcomed on many fronts, not least the speed at which the treatment is available,” said Ms Bradshaw.

“We know the quicker the recovery, the better the long-term prognosis for the patient in terms of health outcomes and also the reduction in the extent of rehabilitation treatment.

“Healthcare workers have worked so hard during this pandemic to treat and support patients who have tested positive for COVI-19 and I am sure they will also be relieved a treatment, which shortens the recovery time, is to be made available.”