These are challenging times for everyone-and each of us must stay focused. For the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) this means safeguarding the health of the lupus community within the new context of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

It is imperative that all of us stay calm, safe, and abreast of the most relevant updates on the many ways this pandemic could impact our lives-and I strongly urge you to regularly check our website at lupusresearch.org for important posts.

This information is so vital to the lupus community that the LRA has added a special COVID-19 Updates section to our home page.

Amid all the troubling stories of recent weeks, we were able to relay positive news to allay fears within our community regarding the use of hydroxychloroquine (better known as Plaquenil)-the most commonly prescribed treatment for lupus.

New data from the Centers for Disease Control shows that use of this drug as a treatment for COVID-19 has been ineffective.

I promise you that the LRA is here for you. Please visit our website and visit it frequently. Our updates are grounded in science and could save the life of someone you love.

Kenneth M. Farber
President and CEO

P.S. Stay safe! Stay connected! And remember the LRA has your back