On May 20, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an advisory against disinfectant products claiming to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. Their advisory warned against the use of products like the “Virus Shut-out” and “SDS Blocker Anti-Virus,” which are marketed as protection devices against viruses and bacteria.

Their advisory advised people to be vigilant about deceptive advertising, since these products have not been proven to cure or kill any viruses or diseases and should not be promoted as such.

FDA also noted that these products contain chlorine dioxide or chlorite, which can cause irritation in the mouth, esophagus and stomach as well as other respiratory problems when inhaled or exposed through skin contact. These products are usually worn around the neck or placed in shirt pockets.

The advisory also encouraged people to follow public health advice from the Department of Health and the World Health Organization, emphasizing that there are currently no treatments for COVID-19. 

Header photo courtesy of the Food and Drug Administration – Philippines

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