LISTERINE® Usage Guidelines and COVID-19
Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health stands by the World Health Organization
The effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic are undeniable.
COVID-19 Overview
At Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health, we are committed to helping individuals and communities around the world manage the unprecedented impacts of COVID-19. Our teams are actively working to maintain production of high-demand consumer health products, including LISTERINE® brand products.
Our mouthwash is in high demand as consumers focus on personal hygiene. We are prioritizing the continued production of high-demand products to maintain supply, all while ensuring a high level of quality and safety.
LISTERINE® is an antimicrobial mouthwash that is clinically proven to kill germs that cause plaque, bad breath and the early gum disease, gingivitis. LISTERINE® is not intended to prevent or treat COVID-19 and should be used only as directed on the product label.
Although there are recent lab-based reports (in vitro studies) of some LISTERINE® Mouthwashes having activity against enveloped viruses, including coronavirus, the available data is insufficient, and no evidence-based clinical conclusions can be drawn with regards to the anti-viral efficacy of LISTERINE® mouthwash at this time.
Our understanding of the course of COVID-19 disease transmission continues to evolve. More research is needed to understand whether the use of mouthwashes can impact viral transmission, exposure, viral entry, viral load and ultimately affect meaningful clinical outcomes.
As a company firmly rooted in science, we are actively participating in scientific dialogue with study investigators around the globe.
For more information on Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 Response.
USE AS DIRECTED
There have been consumer questions around the effectiveness of LISTERINE® against COVID-19. The health and safety of our consumers is paramount. Here are some frequently asked questions with answers from the makers of LISTERINE®.
Does rinsing with LISTERINE® antiseptic mouthwash kill the COVID-19 virus?
LISTERINE® is not intended to prevent or treat COVID-19 and should be used only as directed on the product label. Although there are recent lab-based reports (in vitro studies) of some LISTERINE® Mouthwashes having activity against enveloped viruses, including coronavirus, the available data is insufficient, and no evidence-based clinical conclusions can be drawn with regards to the anti-viral efficacy of LISTERINE® mouthwash at this time.
Consumers should follow the preventive measures issued by the World Health Organization(link is external) including maintaining social distance and practicing good hygiene such as washing hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Can LISTERINE® be used as a hand sanitizer or surface disinfectant because it contains alcohol?
No. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol in order to protect yourself. Only some LISTERINE® formulations contain alcohol, and if present is only around 20% alcohol. LISTERINE® is not intended to be used, nor would it be beneficial as a hand sanitizer or surface disinfectant.
How can I use LISTERINE®, beyond rinsing?
LISTERINE® is only intended to be used to help prevent common oral health problems like bad breath, plaque, cavities, gingivitis and tooth stains. LISTERINE® is not intended to be gargled in the throat, but rather, swished in the mouth. LISTERINE® has many products to choose from. Always read the product label to ensure the product is right for you and use the product as directed.
Can LISTERINE® prevent sore throat?
LISTERINE® products are only intended to be used to help prevent common oral health problems like bad breath, plaque, cavities, gingivitis and tooth stains. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist on how to treat, prevent or relieve the pain of a sore throat.
LISTERINE® mouthwash brand has antiseptic products. Do these kill the germs that cause COVID-19?
LISTERINE® is not intended to prevent or treat COVID-19 and should be used only as directed on the product label. Although there are recent lab-based reports (in vitro studies) of some LISTERINE® Mouthwashes having activity against enveloped viruses, including coronavirus, the available data is insufficient, and no evidence-based clinical conclusions can be drawn with regards to the anti-viral efficacy of LISTERINE® mouthwash at this time.
LISTERINE® is clinically proven to kill 99.9 % of germs that cause bad breath, plaque and gingivitis.
OUR PRODUCT BENEFITS
What germs does LISTERINE® kill?
LISTERINE® is a daily mouthwash that is clinically proven to kill germs that cause plaque, bad breath and the early gum disease gingivitis. LISTERINE® kills up to 99.9% of germs* that cause early gum disease.
There are many LISTERINE® products that provide different oral care benefits. Find the one that is right for you.
*Lab test only. Germ kill% in the mouth can be lower
Does LISTERINE® kill the coronavirus that causes COVID-19?
No. LISTERINE® is a daily mouthwash which has been proven to kill 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis. LISTERINE® mouth rinse is not intended to reduce the risk of, prevent or treat COVID-19 infections. Consumers should follow the preventative measures issued by public health authorities including maintaining social distance and practicing good hygiene such as washing hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
How can LISTERINE® help me during the COVID-19 pandemic?
LISTERINE® has a portfolio of products intended to help prevent common oral health problems like bad breath, plaque, cavities, gingivitis and tooth stains. LISTERINE® can be helpful in maintaining oral hygiene between dental visits. Please consult your dental healthcare professional for updated guidance on booking non-emergency visits.
OTHER PRODUCT RELATED QUESTIONS
Reduced Call Center and Contact Us Support
Due to the evolving public health emergency, you may experience a delayed response when contacting our Call Center and Contact Us. We appreciate your patience as we strive to provide the best service for you and your family during this time.
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