As of mid-2020, SARS-CoV-2 had infected nearly 9 million people worldwide. In the absence of definitive treatments or vaccines, scientists focused on accessible methods to interrupt viral transmission.
This study, conducted at Duke-NUS Medical School (Singapore) and published in Infectious Diseases and Therapy, tested whether PVP-I products used in hospitals and homes could kill the COVID-19 virus in vitro.
What They Tested
Four commercially available BETADINE® PVP-I products were tested:
- Antiseptic solution (10%)
- Skin cleanser (7.5%)
- Gargle/mouthwash (1%)
- Throat spray (0.45%)
Each was exposed to live SARS-CoV-2 virus for 30 seconds, and the virus was then tested for viability using standardized lab protocols.
Key Results
- All four PVP-I products achieved ≥99.99% kill rate (≥4 log₁₀ reduction in viral titre)
- Effectiveness confirmed at 30-second exposure time
- PVP-I effectiveness held even in diluted form (mouthwash at 1:2 dilution)
- Products were non-toxic to cells at usable concentrations
Conclusion: PVP-I acts fast and powerfully against SARS-CoV-2 in laboratory conditions.
Why This Matters
- SARS-CoV-2 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces
- The virus can survive for days on surfaces like plastic and steel
- It is highly transmissible—even from asymptomatic people
- Oral and nasal surfaces are known entry points and transmission routes
🧪 Adding PVP-I to hygiene routines could help prevent spread via hands, mouth, and throat.
Implications for Use
Because of its proven safety and widespread availability, PVP-I could be used to supplement:
- Hand hygiene in medical and home settings
- Pre-procedural mouth rinses in dental or ENT clinics
- Throat sprays or gargles for people in high-risk environments
- Routine use by the general public during periods of high viral transmission
PVP-I has also shown effectiveness against SARS, MERS, and other coronaviruses in past studies—strengthening the case for its broader use.
Limitations
This was an in vitro study (in the lab, not in people). While results are highly promising, additional clinical trials are needed to:
- Confirm its effectiveness in live patients
- Determine duration of protection
- Test long-term tolerability in repeated-use settings
Final Takeaway
Povidone-iodine products are safe, widely available, and proven to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 rapidly.
As part of a comprehensive hygiene strategy, PVP-I may provide an additional line of defense in hospitals, clinics, and even at home.
.png){kind=logo}