Prof. Gerardo Guillen, Ph.D.
Member of the Cuban Academy of Science
Director of Biomedical Research
Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
I would like to thank on behalf of Cuba this opportunity given by UNESCO to share our ideas and talk about the role of Cuban scientists in this battle against SARS-CoV-2.
Decision making from science is crucial to protect the population, stop the spread of the virus and defeat the virus.
The Cuban Government is at the forefront of decision-making to combat the infection.
Health authorities since the beginning of the epidemic in China have organized a permanent group and ad hoc working commissions with scientists, medical experts and specialists from regulatory agencies, allowing a fast track decision-making process.
The drug repurposing to combat COVID 19 has allowed several projects and clinical trials to be ongoing including vaccine and therapies for prevention and treatment in mild, severe and critical ill patients. Despite the serious limitations imposed by the North American blockade, which has prevented us from moving faster, not only to benefit our people, but also to be able to contribute to other countries, as our doctors are already doing. The blockade makes extremely difficult and expensive the access to reagents and equipment.
Cuban scientists are very committed due to the confidence that the Cuban authorities and our population in general show us. The scientists from different research institutions integrated with our health system are joining our efforts and resources and are working tirelessly in this battle. Our capacities are being stretched to the maximum and scientists have contributed with a great number of initiatives and novel ideas that are being put into practice.
Twenty-two drugs in total are being supplied by the Cuban biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry. Interferon has been the most written about since President Xi Jin Ping's recognition and the inclusion in the treatment guidelines in several countries, but several other drugs are under clinical evaluation and research.
I would like to recognize the open science adopted by all scientific publishers and journals and especially by the Chinese authorities and organizations, and also to recognize the extraordinary effort and example given by the Chinese government and Chinese people of how to face this epidemic. Is time of scientific collaboration and put aside the conflicts.
Once again I want to thank for this opportunity that UNESCO has given us and ratify that Cuban scientists, like our doctors, work not only for our people but for the whole world and especially for those most in need.