Noem says South Dakota will participate in clinical trial for hydroxychloroquine

April 14, 2020

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – Gov. Kristi Noem continues to resist calls for a stay-at-home order amid an outbreak in Sioux Falls. But she says South Dakota will run a comprehensive trial for the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine to potentially treat and prevent COVID-19.

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken has requested the governor to issue a stay-at-home order for the city.

Noem says she is evaluating the request, but says people are voluntarily following precautions.

The Republican governor says the trial is a way to “go on offense” against the coronavirus. President Donald Trump has championed the drug, while some doctors say it may have severe side effects.