Surely you've noticed that some folk take the President's public statements at face value.
Once a drug is approved by the FDA for one disease, it can be used off-label for other purposes.
Like I could go and say "The FDA has approved Rogaine." It's true, but it's a useless statement in the context of Covid-19.
Just because he didn't say anything 100% explicitly the cause it and may have been misinterpreted is honestly besides the point. When you are given the power of the presidency, you should either treat your public words with care of just quit forever for all our sakes.
This is just how having power _works_. It's a two-way street, and the idealistic American Way.
EDIT: Anyone care to explain the downvotes? This is my opinion on those gifted with power in all situations. It goes for companies as well. If you're the CEO, VPE, whatever. There should be checks to balance that gifted power. One check is a higher standard of public speaking due to your newfound influence.
He didn't say "drink an additive commonly used at aquariums to clean fish tanks."
http://bannerhealth.mediaroom.com/chloroquinephosphate
I don't see why every story needs to be about him.