Study on insect repellent as coronavirus protection after UK army hints at 'effectiveness' in initial tests
Some British soldiers are reportedly using an ingredient in an insect repellent to ward off the new coronavirus, despite having no evidence to back its use.
However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said their decision to use the product draws from initial test results with the ingredient called Citriodiol was effective. They have now directed scientists from Britain's defense laboratory to carry further studies to investigate its use.
But the Ministry has not divulged details on the preliminary results even as it plans to stock up on the product. They are now hoping that it will protect the troops supporting the government's effort to tackle coronavirus, military sources told Sky news. Produced from the oil of the Eucalyptus citriodora tree, Citriodiol is a part of many insect repellents, including Mosi-Guard.
The MOD claims the product works against other coronaviruses. "Citriodiol is known to have anti-viral properties and has been used as a barrier against the SARS 1 virus [the closest cousin of the new coronavirus]," the spokesperson told Sky news. "Its utility for protecting against COVID-19 is, therefore, being explored by the Ministry of Defence as an additional protective measure for personnel working on the response," they added.
The product, however, is optional. In addition to Citriodiol, the military is practicing social distancing, good hand hygiene, and wearing personal protective equipment.
Responding to the news on the product, Public Health England and the World Health Organization said it does not recommend the product against the new coronavirus.
The WHO told the Guardian that because there is no evidence suggesting the virus is transmitted by mosquitoes, an insect repellant could be ineffective. “To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Also, avoid close contact with anyone who is coughing and sneezing,” it said.
Decision sparks sharp responses
Asking for details on the preliminary results, One politician named Stewart McDonald of the Scottish National Party wrote to a letter to the MOD. In it, he wrote, "If this is based on science, it is vital that the evidence is made public and all frontline workers are given the same advice."
He went on to add, "If there is no evidence that it will be effective, then the MoD must explain why this product is being issued, creating a false sense of security and putting lives at risk. Clarity on this matter is of the greatest urgency."
Another politician also shot off a letter demanding answers. Jamie Stone of the Liberal Democrats said that transparency was vital. He wrote, "The over-riding point is that if your decision has been taken based on sound scientific evidence, then why are other frontline workers not also being provided with Citriodiol?"
A Citriodiol manufacturer welcomes the decision
A company that produces the product, Citrefine International Ltd, is happy about the news.
Commenting on the concerns over the product, Jacqueline Watson, managing director of the firm told Sky News, "They are right we don't have data against this particular virus. However, there is data against other coronaviruses. And, I am certainly not an expert in this area, but having talked to experts, there is good reason to think it may well work against this. But that is why it is just so important to get it tested thoroughly at a specialist laboratory."