Research Reveals Potential New Nebulizer Treatment Option for COVID-19 and Flu Viruses

Exciting news! Developments in the scientific community may be leading to new treatment options for highly infectious viruses like COVID-19 and the flu. Recent research, published in the journal Nature Biotechnology by experts at Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, indicates that a form of mRNA therapy could stop the viruses in their tracks by destroying the genetic code that allows the cells to replicate in the lungs. This safe and adaptable therapy utilizes CRISPR technology, which allows researchers to pinpoint and change pieces of viral genetic code. 

So far, scientists have said trials have shown it to be effective in treating 99 percent of influenza viruses as well as newer, more contagious strains of the coronavirus. Best of all, this treatment would be widely accessible because medication could be administered right at home via nebulizer. Although still in the early stages, the potential of an easy-to-deliver inhaled therapy for patients is invaluable, especially given the widespread effects of the current global pandemic.