As we get to the point where we have good data on decreased mortality we have a clearer picture of who should get the drugs and when. Dr Raoult makes a good case for treating “mild” patients as outpatients or even asymptomatic patients but for a couple considerations. There may not be enough drug in the world to give everyone that’s positive the drugs. The risk doesn’t outweigh the benefit, either. A # of people will get the drugs when they shouldn’t have and cause morbidity as a side effect, as well. So treating the asymptomatic probably isn’t practical. I think a case can be made for treating someone in “mildly ill” category not for the sake of the patient but to reduce shed virus. If we have enough to do that.
All patients admitted as “serious” but not critical should have a G6PD done on admission. The drugs should be started as soon as the test comes back. People who are admitted in extremis SHOULD NOT get the drugs until the G6PD is back.
At this point that’s my take on it. There are other exclusions to the Quinines as well, History of arrhythmia, etc.
’ So treating the asymptomatic probably isn’t practical.’
Outright stupidity given Dr. Zelenko’s successes. The COVID-19 is working to replicate itself before symptoms show, and symptoms are likely result of lung damage, among other organs. When symptoms start, it may only be a matter of hours before the cytokine storm set up by the damaged lungs / organs sets off and kills the patient.