Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues claim to kill "99.9% of cold and flu viruses". Manufacturer Kimberly-Clark says the centre layer of the three-ply tissues contains citric acid and sodium lauryl sulfate, ingredients known to have anti-viral properties.
Dr Lance Jennings, clinical associate professor at Canterbury Health Laboratories, was involved in developing the tissues. He says studies show cold viruses that come into contact with the anti-viral ingredients are inactivated. Dr Jennings, who also acts as an adviser to Kimberly-Clark's "Sneezesafe" school programme, believes the tissues can help reduce the spread of cold viruses – but they don't diminish the need for basic preventive measures such as hand washing.
The Journal of the American Pharmacists Association has reported that studies of anti-viral tissues outside the lab have "yielded mixed results". The studies found the tissues weren't as effective in preventing the spread of infections in the real world as they were in the lab.
Cold and flu viruses get into your body through your nose. They're usually spread by coughing or sneezing or by bodily contact. Frequent hand washing and adequate drying are generally promoted as the most effective method to decrease the risk of spreading these viruses.
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