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High-throughput Screening for Broad-spectrum Chemical Inhibitors of RNA Viruses
Published on: May 5, 2014
Investigative study into whether an insect repellent has virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2
Sophie J Smither1, Lin S Eastaugh1, James S Findlay1
1Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), Porton Down, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ, UK.
Abstract:
A small-scale study with Mosi-guard Natural spray, an insect repellent containing Citriodiol, was performed to determine if it has virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2. A liquid test examined the activity of the insect repellent and the individual components for virucidal activity. A surface contact test looked at the activity of the insect repellent when impregnated on a latex surface as a synthetic skin for potential topical prophylactic application. Both Mosi-guard Natural spray and Citriodiol, as well as other components of the repellent, had virucidal activity in the liquid contact test. On a latex surface used to simulate treated skin, the titre of SARS-CoV-2 was less over time on the Mosi-guard Natural-treated surface but virus was still recovered.
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