Nasal sprays could stop illnesses progressing

Researchers say their findings could offer a cheap and easy way to stop people falling severely ill with respiratory infections

Using nasal sprays to treat a sore throat, cold or flu could stop the illness progressing, a trial has found.

The University of Southampton has released research on the effect over the counter sprays had on almost 14,000 people.

The trial found the days spent feeling ill with sinus and chest infections were reduced by around 20% for those using a gel or saline spray.

It also revealed people using the sprays were less likely to be prescribed antibiotics.

The Southampton team said its findings could offer a cheap and easy way to stop people from falling severely ill with respiratory infections.

Paul Little, professor in primary care research, said: "Given these results, our advice - particularly for those at higher risk from infections or those who get recurrent infections, is at the first sign of cough, sore throat, cold or flu-like symptoms - use a nasal spray to prevent it from developing fully, and to use the sprays preventatively after close exposure to people with infections."

The study was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and researchers recruited 13,799 patients from 332 GP surgeries.

All patients either had an existing health problem, respiratory infections in the past, or were at high risk of infection.

Prof Little added: "The important finding of a reduction in the use of antibiotics is also potentially very important in the fight against antibiotic resistance, one of the major public health threats of our time."