Thermal inactivation of SARS COVID-2 virus: Are steam inhalations a potential treatment?

la Marca, Giancarlo; Barp, Jacopo; Frenos, Stefano; Mugelli, Alessandro; Galli, Luisa; Calistri, Elisa; Biasucci, Giacomo; De Masi, Salvatore; Guerrini, Renzo

BACKGROUND: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has upset health systems around the world and caused immeasurable losses and costs. Until a vaccine will become available, the recommended prevention measures remain physical distancing and enhanced hygiene. METHODS AND FINDINGS: The proteic structure external to the virus is the main target that may eventually lead to reduce or block its replication in the upper airways. We developed a protocol based of repeated steam inhalation cycles aimed at reducing the risk of progression to full blown infection if performed soon after contagion. The protocol has been used in a single-center open label trial on ten infected asymptomatic or pauci-symptomatic health care professionals. CONCLUSIONS: The promising results we obtained with this easily accessible, non-invasive and inexpensive procedure should prompt controlled trials.