Call for study into whether mouthwash can help fight coronavirus

File photo of mouthwash
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Studies should be carried out into whether mouthwash could be effective in targeting coronavirus, researchers said today.

An international peer-reviewed study led by Cardiff University said shop-bought oral rinses may be able to damage the virus “membrane” and reduce infection rates.

The suggestion is based on a review of existing studies which showed that chemicals in mouthwash can disrupt membranes of other viruses.

They said urgent research should be carried out to see if a similar effect could be achieved in early-stage coronavirus infections.

However, they stress that it is not yet known whether this could also be the case for this new coronavirus, and people should continue to follow Government guidance.

Lead author Professor Valerie O’Donnell said: “Safe use of mouthwash – as in gargling – has so far not been considered by public health bodies in the UK.

“In test tube experiments and limited clinical studies, some mouthwashes contain enough of known virucidal ingredients to effectively target lipids in similar enveloped viruses.

“What we don’t know yet is whether existing mouthwashes are active against the lipid membrane of SARS-CoV-2.

“Our review of the literature suggests that research is needed as a matter of urgency to determine its potential for use against this new virus.

“This is an under-researched area of major clinical need – and we hope that research projects will be quickly mobilised to further evaluate this.”

Professor O’Donnell added: “Mouthwash has not been tested against this new coronavirus yet.

“People should continue to follow the preventive measures issued by the UK Government, including washing hands frequently and maintaining social distance.

“This study suggests further clinical studies could be worthwhile based on the theoretical evidence.”

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