A novel nasal spray available exclusively from LloydsPharmacy claims to irreversibly inactivate nearly 100 per cent of SARS-CoV-2 within one minute.

Viraleze (astodrimer sodium) from Starpharma works against multiple strains of SARS-CoV-2, as well as a broad spectrum of other viruses including influenza, RSV, SARS and MERS. It targets the nasal cavity, the primary site where coronavirus typically enters the body, and can be used either before or after exposure.

It offers another layer of protection against respiratory infections along with vaccines, masks and physical distancing, says the company.

The UK will be the first country to launch this product. Rsp is £15. It is available from today (March 30) online at LloydsPharmacy.com and in-store from April 21.