Fox's Cavuto urges viewers not to take drug like Trump

President Donald Trump gestures as he leaves a meeting with restaurant industry executives about the coronavirus response, in the State Dining Room of the White House, Monday, May 18, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
President Donald Trump gestures as he leaves a meeting with restaurant industry executives about the coronavirus response, in the State Dining Room of the White House, Monday, May 18, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

NEW YORK (AP) - Fox News Channel anchor Neil Cavuto strongly urged viewers Monday not to follow the example of President Donald Trump, who revealed he is taking a malaria drug to protect against the coronavirus.

Trump said he has been taking the drug hydroxychloroquine for about a week and a half. The president, and some Fox News personalities, had earlier promoted the drug as a potential treatment for COVID-19, but the government has warned of potentially fatal side effects.

Cavuto, who has multiple sclerosis and other health issues, called Trump's admission stunning. He warned viewers in vulnerable health that they could face serious consequences if they followed the president's example.

"This is a leap that that should not be taken casually by those watching at home or assuming, well, the president of the United States says it's okay," Cavuto said.

He said he was saying it "not to make a political point here, but a life and death point. Be very, very careful."

Upcoming Events