New Research Says Mouthwash Can Kill Corona Virus Is Still Being Debated

Illustration (Source: Envato)

JAKARTA - Recent research from Cardiff University states that mouthwash can kill the new corona virus that causes COVID-19 in 30 seconds. However, these studies are still being challenged by many other health experts.

The latest concludes that gargling with a liquid that contains at least 0.07 percent cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) can kill the virus. These compounds are known to help prevent gingivitis and plaque buildup.

So far, CPC is known to fight bacteria and treat sore throats and reduce or prevent infection. However, if it is to kill the new corona virus, it is still a matter of debate.

Other experts say that mouthwash is unlikely to be the solution to the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason is, there are indeed many things that can kill the virus when it comes in contact, but that will not stop the source of the virus.

"Yes. There is some data out there, I'm not saying it's good data, that empty fillers either deactivate or inhibit the replication of the coronavirus," said Dr. Graham Snyder, professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases. at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Quoting CNN, Wednesday, November 18, alcohol, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, and various other compounds can kill the virus on contact or immediately afterward. But no studies have recently been released showing that any of these substances can reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting the virus, Snyder said.

"You can't sterilize your mouth. When we exhale, cough, sneeze or whatever, the virus could have come from those places," said Snyder.

In the human body, the virus continues to multiply in the upper respiratory tract, in the nose, sinuses, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs. "It's still in your nose, in the fluid in your vocal cords, and in your lung passages," says Dr. Donald Milton, who studies virus transmission at the University of Maryland.

Kills but does not sterilize

Although using mouthwash or some type of mouthwash could theoretically reduce the amount of viruses or bacteria in a person's mouth for a short time, it is not possible to sterilize the human mouth. Any microbes will grow back in a fairly short time.

"You can't sterilize your mouth. It will never be completely free of pathogens," says Snyder. "Using this oral solution will not substantially stop the disease process. The virus will continue to multiply."

Synder explained the same applies to ultraviolet light. He explained that although UV rays from any source such as the sun or lamps can kill viruses on the surface, these rays cannot enter the human body.

These devices can't stop more viruses from sticking back later and they can't stop someone from breathing out more viruses a few seconds after being exposed. Likewise, mouthwashes or disinfectants will do little to protect against inhalation of the virus, said Leana Wen, doctor and Visiting Professor of Health Policy and Management at the George Washington University School of Public Health.

"Viruses can enter our respiratory system in two ways. This can be entered through contact, for example touching a doorknob that has just been touched by another person with the corona virus, then touching the nose, mouth or eyes, "said Wen.

"It can also enter through breathing, when you breathe in the same air as someone who is infected. Washing your mouth or nose will not prevent the virus from entering," he added.

The coronavirus killer mouthwash is a weak theory. Even Johnson & Johnson, maker of the Listerine mouthwash, has explicitly warned consumers against the idea. "Listerine mouthwash has not been tested against any type of coronavirus," reads the company's website.

"Only some Listerine mouthwash formulations contain alcohol, and if there is only about 20% alcohol. Listerine mouthwash is not intended to be used, nor will it be useful as a hand sanitizer or surface disinfectant."