Added protection

Given that Covid infection is transmitted by breathing in minute airborne particles of virus, I have been following my doctor's advice and have been using a nasal spray. The spray is a gel type which coats the inside of the nose and stops the virus particles from penetrating the nasal membranes. There are two different brands which work on the same principles :-

1. Boots Nasal Guard Cold & Flu Block Topical.

2. Vicks First Defence

Both contain carragelose

https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/how-not-to-get-a-cold-515435.html

https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/ear-nose-throat/a8888/vicks-first-defence-nasal-spray/

https://www.carragelose.com/en

https://www.boots.com/nasaleze-cold-and-flu-blocker-powder-spray-800mg-10280749

Given that Covid infection is transmitted by breathing in minute airborne particles of virus

It can also be caught by transfer - hence the emphasis on hand-washing. The wearing of (non NHS) masks is as much (if not more) to protect others from your airborne particles (which they may then convey to their noses/ mouths through transfer) than to protect you. Whilst blocking the nose may certainly help, it will not by any means block all routes. Social distancing, mask wearing in indoor/ enclosed spaces, hand washing and, when available to you, the vaccine is your surest protection.

I agree that this gel/spray is to be used in conjunction with masks, handwashing, distancing (probably the most important), ventilation, etc.

I wonder whether smearing your nostril insides with Vicks or even petroleum jelly would help in any way in blocking viruses/baceria?

Nigello Wrote:

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> I agree that this gel/spray is to be used in

> conjunction with masks, handwashing, distancing

> (probably the most important), ventilation, etc.

>

> I wonder whether smearing your nostril insides

> with Vicks or even petroleum jelly would help in

> any way in blocking viruses/bacteria?

Indeed, it is one additional precaution to be used alongside the others you mention but it is a very effective one. Every extra bit of protection minimises risk.

Smearing with petroleum jelly would have limited efficacy because it could not be applied in the upper nasal tract ie in the area of conchae & nasal meatuses - which is where the virus would find it easiest to penetrate. This upper area is where you feel the very first symptoms of a cold or 'flu.

The two products I mentioned have anti-viral properties whereas petroleum jelly does not.