Cetylpyridinium Chloride-Containing Mouthwashes Show Virucidal Activity against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1

The oral cavity is particularly susceptible to viral infections that are self-recovering in most cases. However, complications may appear severe cases and/or immunocompromised subjects. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)-containing mouthwashes able decrease the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 virus by disrupting integrity envelope. Here, we show CPC, as active ingredient contained commercialized, exerts significant antiviral activity against enveloped viruses, such HSV-1, but not non-enveloped HPV. CPC-containing have been used antiseptics for decades, and thus, they can represent a cost-effective measure limit infection spread viruses infecting cavity, aiding reducing transmission.