Loading ...Prevention of COVID-19 Infection with Povidone-Iodine
6 Pages Posted: 7 May 2020
Date Written: April 30, 2020
Abstract
In late 2019, a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, which causes Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), appeared in Wuhan, China. On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the current outbreak of COVID-19 to be a public health emergency of international concern. There is no treatment for COVID-19 infection besides preventive measures recommended by the WHO. Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is an antiseptic that has primarily been used for the prevention or management of wound infections for over 150 years. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties and its safety have been well-documented. This article reviews the studies that have assessed the antiviral efficacy of PVP-I and its potential use as a prophylactic on the oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal mucosa of healthcare workers, COVID-19 patients, and the community as an additional measure to help abate the pandemic.
Note: Funding: None.
Conflict of Interest: None.
Keywords: pandemic, COVID-19, povidone-iodine, WHO, coronavirus, clinical trials