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Pharmaceuticals

Avigan trial to stretch beyond June as Japan's coronavirus cases plunge

Exclusive: Participants have reached only 70% of target level

Clinical trials of Avigan began in March with the goal of testing 96 patients to examine its efficacy and safety. (Photo by Koji Uema) 

TOKYO -- Potential coronavirus treatment Avigan is now expected to take until July at the earliest to complete a clinical trial, further delaying government approval in Japan, Nikkei has learned.

A sharp decline in COVID-19 cases in Japan has made it difficult to secure enough patients for testing, according to people familiar with the matter.

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