Letter to the editor: False information on ivermectin

Ivermectin is considered a “wonder drug” by many doctors. It has been around since the 1970s, curing millions from many of the world’s worst parasitic infections. The two doctors who developed it were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine. Not only is ivermectin used in poorer counties for parasites, it is used in the U.S. as a topical version for head lice.

What ivermectin isn’t proven to be effective for is covid-19. However, there are studies underway to determine if it is. It is true some people are taking the version designed for horses, and in some cases have had severe negative results. The problem is, this usage has been greatly exaggerated by the media and some people making false statements about it.

Two examples of this are Rachel Maddow and Joy Reid of MSNBC. Both spread the rumor on broadcasts and with tweets that people taking ivermectin are tying up hospital beds and preventing others from being treated. This story proved to be false. Other media then ran headline stories repeating the false rumor.

The problem now is “Saturday Night Live” and late-night talk shows are making jokes about people taking “horse dewormer.” People are writing letters to the editor making false claims based upon these rumors. For example, in his letter “First hydroxychloroquine, now ivermectin” (Sept. 13, TribLIVE), Michael Garing blamed “right-wing media and politicians” for influencing thousands into taking ivermectin. Yet he derides Fox News, when it is one of a few media outlets to expose the false narratives of Maddow, Reid, and others.

Tom Cerra

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