Dettol manufacturer Reckitt Benckiser has warned against improper use of disinfectants after US president Donald Trump suggested injecting it into the body may help fight coronavirus.
The most powerful man in the western world suggested research in the field, leading to a lambasting from the medical community.
Thursday’s White House press conference heard Mr Trump move from heat and light treatment potential to the cleaning of the body from within.
The BBC and other international outlets report him saying: “And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning?
“So it’d be interesting to check that.”
Pointing to his head, Mr Trump finished: “I’m not a doctor. But I’m, like, a person that has a good you-know-what.”
Dettol was devised in Hull, with Reckitt Benckiser the company behind it. The outbreak led to huge global demand for the industry leader, with an absolute focus on cleaning surfaces - not blood vessels.
It could even see further investment in the city.
In a statement, RB - who has acted on the 'infodemic' as well as aiding the fight against the pandemic, said: “Due to recent speculation and social media activity, RB (the makers of Lysol and Dettol) has been asked whether internal administration of disinfectants may be appropriate for investigation or use as a treatment for coronavirus.
“As a global leader in health and hygiene products, we must be clear that under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route). As with all products, our disinfectant and hygiene products should only be used as intended and in line with usage guidelines. Please read the label and safety information.
“We have a responsibility in providing consumers with access to accurate, up-to-date information as advised by leading public health experts. For this and other myth-busting facts, please visit Covid-19facts.com.”
Global chief executive Laxman Narasimhan praised Hull’s role a month ago when a worldwide fund with £32m kitty was launched.
