News From the UK. Mouthwash Can Kill Coronavirus

Scientists at Cardiff University, UK, concluded that the mouthwash showed “promising signs” of effectiveness against the coronavirus. Mouthwash can kill a pathogen in less than 30 seconds, according to new research.

The study looked at over-the-counter products containing at least 0.07% cetyl pyridinium chloride (CPC). Experts suggest that mouth cleaners can be used for hand hygiene. The next clinical trial will examine how effective mouthwash can be in reducing viral load in the saliva of COVID-19 patients. It will take place at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and is expected to be published in the first half of 2021.

According to the BBC, the virucidal properties of the rinses will be tested in further tests.

Just two weeks ago, experts from the Pennsylvania College of Medicine, USA, came to a similar conclusion.

During the experiment, the researchers created cells grown from human tissue and then infected them with the human coronavirus HCoV (used as a surrogate for SARS-CoV-2, that is, the new Chinese coronavirus).

Scientists exposed the virus to several common over-the-counter types of mouthwash for 30 seconds, 1 minute, and 2 minutes. And then they measured how much of the virus was inactivated.

The most effective was the Listerine Antiseptic mouthwash (Johnson & Johnson Consumer). In 30 seconds, it inactivated more than 99.9% of the virus.

“But mouthwash should not replace masking and social distancing,” warned Craig Meyers, M.D., distinguished professor of microbiology, immunology, obstetrics, and gynecology at the Pennsylvania State College of Medicine.

At the same time, there is still no evidence of the effectiveness of the liquid as a therapeutic agent, since it does not enter either the respiratory tract or the lungs.

The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Thomas, said that mouth rinses work well at home, but so far doctors have not had to test them in a hospital setting on real patients. It makes sense to talk only about the goals of prevention, but not about the actual treatment.

Another periodontist noted that the study was of particular value. After all, if the positive results of the experiment are reflected in clinical trials, then mouthwashes will be an important addition to the daily routine of washing hands, wearing a mask, and physical distance.

The expert panel has not yet provided its conclusions regarding this study. However, the scientists’ findings are consistent with previous tests that have shown CPC-containing fluids help reduce the viral load of SARS-CoV-2.

It is important to note that the experiments were carried out using synthetic saliva. Doctors do not recommend using the drug to treat or prevent COVID-19 until the final results are published.