Be wary of HFMD/flu spray — ministry

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) reminded members of the public to be wary of the claim that an anti-HFMD/flu spray under the brand name Thymos is able to provide full protection against the Hand, Foot and Mouth (HFMD) and Influenza A viruses.

Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the product is made of activated minerals and labelled with the claim that it “instantly kills 99.99 per cent of HFMD and Influenza A viruses” by the manufacturer.

“The manufacturer's claim is unfounded because there is no strong evidence that such claims are effective as labelled.

"However, since it is not used directly on humans, this product is not under the control of the MOH and there is no requirement for the product to be registered with relevant MOH agencies," he said.

The product is dispensed, by spray, on to outer garments and surfaces such as on toys.

In a statement, MOH said the company had been advised to withdraw the said claims for the Malaysian market and to replace it with a general and appropriate statement to avoid public confusion.

The public is also advised to practise five key points in the prevention and control of HFMD, namely personal hygiene care, proper handwashing practices, ensuring the cleanliness of the surroundings, implementing a point-of-entry screening at kindergartens and preschools, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces. Bernama