Australian scientists are investigating the use of a nasal spray to protect against covid-19. It is a spray that has heparin as its active substance, used as an anti-blood coagulant, as it is a cheap drug and already on the market.

According to reports the BBCThere is reason to suspect that heparin, when sprayed into the nose of a person infected with coronavirus, neutralizes the coronavirus "spike" protein and makes the patient no longer contagious.

In this regard, scientists believe that the spray can help in prevention as an initial treatment in order to stop the pandemic from advancing.

Michelle McIntosh, one of the researchers involved in the clinical trial, explained that this drug "does not require refrigeration and can be stored in plastic bottles, so it can be distributed widely and effectively."

For his part, the principal investigator, Don Campbell, clarified to the BBC that the sprayer can be used "anywhere you are in contact with the public," adding that he is "pretty confident that it will work."

The first clinical trial has already secured funding of 4.2 million Australian dollars (over 2.5 million euros) from the Victorian State Government, and will start in February.