More than 85% of sore throats are caused by viruses^{5, 44} . Bacteria are the next most common type of germs that cause sore throats^{5, 43, 44}.

These viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touch an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs or sneezes) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing) ⁴³.

A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is good to use a preparation that target different types and classes of germs.

The moment you feel an itch in your throat, it is always good to use an antiseptic gargle before the situation becomes more serious. You do not want germs to spread to your loved ones. This reduces the chances of them getting the germs before they have a chance to act.

Viruses are tiny particles that rely on human or animal cells for their survival, so they cannot last very long outside the body²⁷. They cause illnesses by invading healthy cells and multiplying.

Bacteria are single cell organisms usually found in and on our bodies²⁷. Some bacteria are harmless – and can even be good for us – and some cause infections²⁷.

Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria. Because majority of sore throats are caused by a virus, antibiotics would not work for such cases. Most health authorities advise against the over-use of antibiotics so that resistance doesn’t become a big problem.⁶

For the same reasons, other viral infections like flu should not be treated with antibiotics either⁶.

If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections*.

* For further information, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Since most sore throats are caused by germs⁵, there are steps that you can take to prevent getting an infection:

• Avoid sharing utensils with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap.
• Practice proper hand and throat hygiene by using an antiseptic hand wash and
  gargle, such as BETADINE^® Sore Throat Spray to kill germs and prevent passing on germs
  within the family or community².
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands as germs can.
enter your body this way and make you sick.
• Stay away from people who are ill, as germs can spread.

Germs that cause sore throats can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching something that has the germs on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).

When a loved one suffers from sore throat, flu or a cold, practicing proper throat and oral hygiene like spraying with BETADINE^® helps. This lessens the chances of other family members getting it too by killing the germs before they have a chance to act.

The active ingredient in BETADINE^®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a golden brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin³.

If you accidentally get BETADINE^® on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, BETADINE^® can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.

CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.