Use of a virucidal preparation on an area of the face for prevention of transmission or contraction of viral illnesses, or to shorten the duration of, or lessen the severity of viral illnesses
A method of reducing or inhibiting the contraction or communication of viral illnesses is proposed. Application of a virucidal preparation containing one or more organic acids (e.g. malic acid) with or without a surfactant (e.g. sodium C14-C16 olefin sulfonate) in a carrier agent (e.g. petrolatum) to the face of well individuals will reduce the chance that they contract illness with viral illnesses such as viral upper respiratory illnesses, influenza, viral gastroenteritis, viral rhinosinusitis, viral cold sores, and viral conjunctivitis. Application of said ointment to the nares of individuals with a VURI will reduce the chance they transmit the illness by reducing self-contamination of their hands when touching their nose. In addition, individuals suffering from a cold or influenza may reduce the duration or severity of illness by application of the nasal antiviral ointment. The ointment is most effective when applied with a clean applicator two or three times daily.
