Chinese premier urges breakthroughs in medical science to fight epidemic

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the leading group of the CPC Central Committee on the novel coronavirus prevention and control, learns about the use of detection equipment for the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), during an inspection tour to a national emergency platform for COVID-19 drugs and medical equipment, in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 28, 2020. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, Feb. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday called for greater breakthroughs in the development of efficient detection reagents, effective drugs and vaccines to fight the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the leading group of the CPC Central Committee on the novel coronavirus prevention and control, made the remarks during an inspection tour to a national emergency platform for COVID-19 drugs and medical equipment.

Acknowledging China's development in nucleic acid detection reagents and other testing reagents, Li said that the reagents have played a key role in epidemic control, and efforts should be made to develop reagents with shorter detection time, more accurate results and simpler operation.

Noting that drugs are key to curbing the spread of the virus, Li said that priority should be placed on developing a selection of safe and reliable drugs with notable efficacy to treat the critical cases, bring down the mortality rate, and stop mild cases from deteriorating.

Efforts should be made to speed up the development of COVID-19 vaccines and ensure their quality at the same time, Li said, adding that the country should strengthen international cooperation in vaccine development.

Li also urged improved government services and a more efficient review process to support the development of reagents, drugs and vaccines.

Relevant departments should step up coordination in the release of research results so that the public can get accurate and reliable information, Li said.