Medicine has lost an important freedom fighter.
Vladimir “Zev” Zelenko, M.D., age 48, the New York physician who led the charge on early treatment using hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19, died June 30. While he was fighting fiercely to protect his patients, he endured a personal battle with cancer.
In March 2021, Zelenko told The Heartland Daily Podcast his early intervention protocol saved all but three of his 1,000 patients during the early stages of the pandemic when little was known about the virus. Zelenko fended off attacks from the medical profession, the media, and the government. Although he was being treated with chemotherapy and had one lung, he said he didn’t think a mask would offer him any extra protection.
Last year, an international group of physicians nominated Zelenko for the Nobel Peace Prize.
‘Zelenko’s Courageous Stance’
Health care professionals, physicians, and patients have been mourning his loss.
In a statement, the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS) called him a hero.
“Dr. Zelenko’s courageous stance in favor of patients and the ability of physicians to treat them will forever live on in his name,” stated the AAPS.
“As misguided public health authorities demanded that physicians not use hydroxychloroquine and other inexpensive medications for treating patients early for COVID-19, Dr. Zelenko did not waver in his dedication to patients,” stated the AAPS.
‘Zelenko Protocol’ Saved Lives
When there was no other treatment available, Zelenko developed a treatment for COVID-19 three drugs known to be effective against other diseases, saving countless lives, says the AAPS.
“He generously shared his ’Zelenko Protocol’ with all other physicians, thousands of whom used it to save the lives of millions of patients suffering from COVID-19,” stated the AAPS.
“Dr. Zelenko’s leadership is timeless in how to treat COVID-19 patients, while not being intimidated by authorities who improperly interfered with use of his brilliant treatment protocol. Zev’s shining example is what all physicians should aspire to be, and he will continue to be a model for the medical profession for generations to come.”
-Staff reports
Photo courtesy of Wikicommons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vladimir_Zelenko_Radio_NVC_interview.jpg