British troops are being given an insect repellent as a new layer of protection against Covid-19, it has been reported.
Soldiers will be issued with Citriodiol, which reportedly kills types of coronaviruses.
A military source told Sky News that the repellent could also kill the strain behind the pandemic.
Jacqueline Watson, managing director of Citrefine International Ltd - the company that produces Citriodiol - said she would like the government to support a formal testing programme.
She said: "What we can say is that we do feel there is a very good chance it could work against this virus but it does of course need to be thoroughly tested."
It has also been revealed that soldiers will be given ESOL disinfectant spray to be used as a decontaminant if they come into contact with someone who has or might have Covid-19.
Troops are being given the option to spray ESOL - normally used on food to extend its shelf-life - on themselves before washing with soap and water.
They are also said to be offered vitamin D supplements to support their immune system.
Priority will be given to those supporting the government's effort to tackle coronavirus - such as troops working on testing sites and delivering personal protective equipment (PPE).
The enhanced protection measures are optional and do not replace social distancing, hand-washing or the wearing of personal protective equipment, military sources said.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: "The protection and well-being of armed forces personnel is a priority.
"To help them remain healthy and available for duty the MoD is considering what additional measures can help their immune systems to stay fighting fit."
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 reports.
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.
