Hydrogen Peroxide Is Not A COVID Cure, Asthma Organization Warns

Another “dangerous trend” has surfaced on social media. People are apparently trying to treat and prevent COVID-19 by nebulizing hydrogen peroxide. In response, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America is warning the public of the risks associated with doing so.

The asthma organization issued a warning against the breathing in of hydrogen peroxide through nebulizers as a cure for COVID, saying in a blog post that it is "dangerous."

The foundation went on to say, “DO NOT put hydrogen peroxide into your nebulizer and breathe it in. This is dangerous! It is not a way to prevent nor treat COVID-19.”

The trend, which is circulating on Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, is claimed to be a home remedy that can treat and prevent the virus. The AAFA maintains that nebulizers, breathing devices that are used in the treatment of asthma, should only be used with “asthma medicine prescribed by your doctor,” adding, “other chemicals can be harmful to your lungs.”

Hydrogen peroxide is typically used as an antiseptic to treat minor cuts, scrapes and burns, or as a household cleaner.

The Poison Control Center said ingesting small amounts of hydrogen peroxide can cause mild irritation, but at higher concentrations, burns can develop. In rare instances, life-threatening effects can occur.