There's hope Covid-19 could be killed by a product in mosquito spray with UK military chemical experts to begin testing.
The Ministry of Defence is investigating whether citriodiol, which has proved effective at killing other types of coronavirus, can destroy the newest strain, reports Sky News.
It comes as British troops are being issued with the repellent and encouraged to use it if they come into contact with someone who has - or potentially has - the disease.
An MoD spokesman said: "Further work is required to determine its full effectiveness, acquisition and distribution.
For updates on coronavirus, follow our live blog HERE.
"Citriodiol is known to have anti-viral properties and has been used as a barrier against the SARS 1 virus.
"Its utility for protecting against COVID-19 is therefore being explored by the Ministry of Defence as an additional protective measure for personnel working on the response."
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) at Porton Down has been tasked with conducting studies to provide further evidence as part of the probe, they added.
Jacqueline Watson, managing director of Citrefine International Ltd, previously said the company thinks there is a "very good chance" the product could work against the disease.
Those soldiers on the frontline of the battle with the virus, such as military personnel helping at testing sites and delivering PPE, are receiving the first batches.
Citriodiol comes from the oil of eucalyptus trees and is used in Mosi Guard spray, bottles of which are already being sent to soldiers.
A source reportedly said the repellent should be used every four hours.
Troops are also receiving vitamin D supplements to boost their immune system, in addition to PPE.
They are also being given the option to spray ESOL - normally used on food to extend its shelf-life - on themselves before washing with soap and water.
After the news emerged, Public Health England confirmed the government’s guidance does not include using any such substance to protect against Covid-19 infection, The Guardian reported.
The World Health Organization said there was no evidence the virus can be transmitted by mosquitoes and that an insect repellent would therefore be ineffective.
