Gel Destroys H5N1 Virus Within Thirty Seconds

Featured Article
Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Dermatology;  Public Health
Article Date: 11 Sep 2006 - 11:00 PDT

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DermaSalve Sciences, a UK company that makes products for people with dry skin, has developed a gel that destroys the H5N1 bird flu virus strain in half-a-minute.

The gel could be used by health and agricultural workers - it is applied on to the skin and remains effective for about 30 minutes.

Dr. Mark Randle, CEO, says DermaSalve aims to start production in October. He added that the gel will be on the market by the end of this year. "We're in commercial discussions with various parties to sell the gel on a large scale in areas where it is needed," he said.

There are various sprays, soaps and gels on the market that claim to protect from H5N1 infection. However, Dr. Randle stressed that none of them have been specifically tested for H5N1 to the same degree as his company's gel.

Whether or not this gel, or any other product that destroys H5N1, would be as effective against a mutated bird flu virus remains to be seen. The serious public health threat comes from a mutated H5N1 virus. Depending on how H5N1 mutates, there is the possibility that the gel would not be effective.

This gel has other benefits, apart from protecting from H5N1, said Dr. Randle. It's moisturising and anti-bacterial properties would be beneficial for people with dry skin. The gel is internationally patented , using bi-liquid foam technology which provides 2 main benefits:

-- Enhanced and prolonged viracidal activity
-- Enhanced moisturising properties and minimised potential skin irritation from frequent and repeated use

www.dermasalvesciences.com

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

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