TB Analysis: Can washing your mouth and nose with iodine solution prevent you from COVID-19?

A latest study conducted by the scientists from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine found that iodine solution may help in preventing the covid-19 spread as per the article published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

SARS-CoV-2, the causative factor of COVID-19, can spread through respiratory droplets when a contaminated individual sniffles, coughs or talks. Studies have demonstrated that the infection enters through the nose and mouth into the lungs and both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients have a high viral burden in their nasopharynx and oropharynx.

Despite the fact that masks decrease the spread of respiratory droplets to a degree, a few specialists have proposed the utilization of oral and nasal povidone-iodine to diminish viral load and limit the danger of transmission of the infection to medical services laborers. The recommendation was motivated by past examinations, which had demonstrated the antiviral impacts on SARS and MERS infection.

Here is what the study reveals

In human body, the nose and mouth consists increased levels of ACE2 receptors, which are like entry points of the coronavirus into the human body. Owing to the fact, countless research works are focused on nasal sprays, or even nasal vaccines in case of the coronavirus.

As per the researchers’ claim the tested samples of the virus against three different concentrations of povidone-iodine – 0.5%, 1.25%, and 2.5% at 22 degree celsius was found to completely inactivate the virus, within 15 seconds. The same test was performed with ethanol alcohol, but failed to show any positive result.

After the exposure time, It was figured out that the povidone-iodine solution (PVP-I) with a concentration of 0.5 percent was strong to eradicate SARS-CoV-2 within 15 seconds. Solutions up to 1.25 percent were found to be bearable for short-term nasal use as they did not affect the fine hair in the nose.

The mucus from the nose and other compounds like lipids, extracellular fragments of nucleic acids etc. act as a barrier for iodine and prevent it from reaching the infection site. So, the povidone solution concentration has to be kept below the threshold that is harmful to the nose and above the one that effectively mitigates covid virus.

Can washing your mouth and nose with an iodine help you stay away from COVID-19?

The specialists of the examination have said that 15 seconds might be sufficient to inactivate the infection, utilizing the iodine solution. They further said that if these solutions, as nasal disinfectants, are administered for patients via intranasal methods, it could help diminish the danger of viral spread through droplets and air.

Scientists further said that clinical experts could teach patients on the usage to maintain a strategic distance from the spread of the infection in sitting areas and crowded places of the clinics. They recommended using povidone-iodine irrigation for reducing virus. Notwithstanding, specialists have advised individuals to NOT TRY THIS AT HOME. The nasal wash is best done under the instruction of a clinician, they said.

The group recommended washing the patient’s mouth with a 9.5 mL water alongside a 0.5 mL of the 10 percent PVP-I for 30 seconds before leading any dental method. The solution isn’t to be given to pregnant ladies, the individuals who are oversensitive to iodine and those with thyroid issues.

Dr Avinash Bidra, clinical associate professor of prosthodontics at the School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, and comparing creator of that review, had said, “We accept this has quick and huge public dental health impact for patients and for dental experts, in the midst of the ongoing pandemic”.