Using nasal sprays to prevent respiratory tract infections: a qualitative study of online consumer reviews and primary care patient interviews

Abstract

ObjectivesNasal sprays could be a promising approach to preventing respiratory tract infections (RTIs). This study explored lay people’s perceptions and experiences of using nasal sprays to prevent RTIs to identify barriers and facilitators to their adoption and continued use.DesignQualitative research. Study 1 thematically analysed online consumer reviews of an RTI prevention nasal spray. Study 2 interviewed patients about their reactions to and experiences of a digital intervention that promotes and supports nasal spray use for RTI prevention (reactively: at ‘first signs’ of infection and preventatively: following possible/probable exposure to infection). Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.SettingPrimary care, UK.Participants407 online customer reviews. 13 purposively recruited primary care patients who had experienced recurrent infections and/or had risk factors for severe infections.ResultsBoth studies identified various factors that might influence nasal spray use including: high motivation to avoid RTIs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic; fatalistic views about RTIs; beliefs about alternative prevention methods; the importance of personal recommendation; perceived complexity and familiarity of nasal sprays; personal experiences of spray success or failure; tolerable and off-putting side effects; concerns about medicines; and the nose as unpleasant and unhygienic.ConclusionsPeople who suffer disruptive, frequent or severe RTIs or who are vulnerable to RTIs are interested in using a nasal spray for prevention. They also have doubts and concerns and may encounter problems. Some of these may be reduced or eliminated by providing nasal spray users with information and advice that addresses these concerns or helps people overcome difficulties.

Determining the clinical and cost-effectiveness of nasal sprays and a physical activity and stress management intervention to reduce respiratory tract infections in primary care: A protocol for the ‘Immune Defence’ randomised controlled trial

“…be available on request). The digital intervention to support nasal spray use and its development is described in more detail elsewhere [28].…”

“…We accepted that this would provide less power for our key secondary outcome (incidence of infections). However, the aim for the latter outcome is to compare each intervention with control, so using the arguments of Cook and Farewell, since each analysis of intervention versus control is independent, this should not require a conservative Bonferroni correction [28], and we can use an alpha of 0.05. Using these assumptions, the above sample size would provide more than 80% power to estimate a 25% reduction in the incidence of infections from 20% to 15% in each stratum and more than 90% power if the incidence of infections is 15% using all strata combined.…”

Effects of Nozzle Retraction Elimination on Spray Distribution in Middle-Posterior Turbinate Regions: A Comparative Study

“…Nasal spray pumps, celebrated for their non-invasive, efficient, and patient-compliant method of delivering a wide range of medications, are expanding beyond traditional uses like treating nasal allergies and the common cold to encompass a broader spectrum of therapeutic applications [1,2]. This includes serving as a practical approach for the topical management of conditions affecting the nose and paranasal sinuses, such as both forms of rhinitis and sinusitis [3][4][5].…”

Functionalized protein microparticles targeting hACE2 as a novel preventive strategy for SARS-CoV-2 infection

“…Most of them are not expensive, can be stored/shipped at room temperature, and are used in a self-administration manner without the requirement of healthcare staff and medical facility. A study ( Williamson et al, 2022 ) based on online customer survey showed that lay people who are vulnerable to RTIs have strong intentions to use a nasal spray during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, the German Society of Hospital Hygiene has included virucidal nasal sprays and mouthwash solutions as supplemental control measures against SARS-CoV-2 infection in its guidelines ( Kramer et al, 2022 ).…”