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San Antonio Express-News Hearst Newspapers Logo [Skip to main content](https://www.expressnews.com/cnet/article/Trump-suggests-injecting-disinfectant-to-kill-15222982.php#content) [Subscribe](https://subscription.expressnews.com/checkout/1912/3860/?origin=button&ipid=wcm) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) - [Politics](https://www.expressnews.com/election/) - [Robb Elementary Shooting](https://www.expressnews.com/uvalde) - [Local](https://www.expressnews.com/news) - [Border & Mexico](https://www.expressnews.com/news/border-mexico/) - [U.S. & World](https://www.expressnews.com/news/us-world/) - [Education](https://www.expressnews.com/news/education/) [Hill Country](https://www.expressnews.com/hill-country/) [Sports](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/) - [High School](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/high-school/) - [Cowboys & NFL](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/cowboys/) - [Colleges](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/colleges/utsa/) - [Final Four](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/final-four/) [Spurs](https://www.expressnews.com/sports/spurs/) [Weather](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/) - [Forecasts](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/) - [Flood Risk Map](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/trackers/san-antonio-flood-risk-map/) [Business](https://www.expressnews.com/business/) - [Real Estate](https://www.expressnews.com/business/real-estate/) - [SpaceX](https://www.expressnews.com/spacex/) - [Press Releases](https://www.expressnews.com/business/press-releases/) [Opinion](https://www.expressnews.com/opinion/) - [San Antonio Forward](https://www.expressnews.com/opinion/sa-forward/) [Food](https://www.expressnews.com/food/) - [Chowbot](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/where-to-eat-drink-san-antonio-restaurants-chowbot/) - [Top Restaurants](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/) - [Cooking & Recipes](https://www.expressnews.com/food/recipes-cooking/) [Lifestyle](https://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/) - [Arts & Entertainment](https://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/) - [Comics](https://www.expressnews.com/comics/) - [Puzzles](https://www.expressnews.com/puzzles/) [Special Projects](https://www.expressnews.com/special-projects/) - [Remembering Uvalde Victims](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/uvalde/victim-obituaries/) - [Bleeding Out](https://www.expressnews.com/bleeding-out/) - [Nowhere To Hide](https://www.expressnews.com/news/investigations/domestic-violence/) [Podcasts](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/podcasts/) - [Puro Politics](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/podcasts/puro-politics) - [Nosotros](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/podcasts/nosotros) - [Spurs Insider](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/podcasts/spurs-insider) - [EN Depth](https://www.expressnews.com/projects/podcasts/en-depth/) [Classifieds](http://marketplace.mysa.com/sanantonio-marketplace/) - [Obituaries](https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sanantonio/) - [Place an Obituary](https://sanantonio.obituaries.com/?utm_campaign=consumerdirect&utm_source=hearst&utm_medium=np_s&utm_content=sanantonio) - [Legal Notices](http://marketplace.mysa.com/sanantonio-marketplace/category/Announcements) [About Us](https://www.hearst.com/newspapers/san-antonio-express-news) - [Privacy Notice](https://www.expressnews.com/privacy_policy) - [Terms of Use](https://www.expressnews.com/terms_of_use/) - [Photo Store](https://photostore.expressnews.com/) [Newsletters](https://link.expressnews.com/join/signup-saen?IPID=Express-News-HP-subnav&_gl=1*x3d9lo*_ga*MjA3MDEyNjQ2MS4xNzAyNTEzNTAz*_ga_B025EWJ1JR*MTcwODQ0MTc2NS44MC4xLjE3MDg0NTEwMjcuMC4wLjA.) [Newsroom Events](https://www.expressnews.com/about/newsroom-news/events/) [San Antonio Express News Logo](https://www.expressnews.com/) [Subscribe](https://subscription.expressnews.com/checkout/1912/3860/?origin=button&ipid=wcm) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/)// Local # Trump recklessly suggests injecting disinfectant to kill coronavirus. Why he's wrong By Jackson Ryan , provided by Provided By ![Sponsorship Logo]() April 24, 2020 ![President Donald Trump examines slides on disinfectants during a press briefing on April 23.]() President Donald Trump examines slides on disinfectants during a press briefing on April 23. Drew Angerer/Getty ![ Fighting coronavirus: COVID-19 tests, vaccine research, masks, ventilators and more Around the world, medical teams and researchers have been scrambling to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, from the front lines of dealing with the sick to the labs working on potential vaccines. Meanwhile, there are roles being worked out for high-tech systems including robots, supercomputers and 3D printers.Here, a medical laboratory scientist runs a clinical test in the immunology lab at the University of Washington, looking for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 (the formal name for the new coronavirus) on April 17 in Seattle. The plasma she's examining came from donors who have recovered from COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the virus, and may have the potential to help combat the disease in others.]() **[Fighting coronavirus: COVID-19 tests, vaccine research, masks, ventilators and more](https://www.cnet.com/pictures/fighting-coronavirus-covid-19-tests-vaccine-research-masks-ventilators-and-more/#ftag=CAD0610abe3d)** Around the world, medical teams and researchers have been scrambling to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, from the front lines of dealing with the sick to the labs working on potential vaccines. Meanwhile, there are roles being worked out for high-tech systems including robots, supercomputers and 3D printers.Here, a medical laboratory scientist runs a clinical test in the immunology lab at the University of Washington, looking for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 (the formal name for the new coronavirus) on April 17 in Seattle. The plasma she's examining came from donors who have recovered from COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the virus, and may have the potential to help combat the disease in others. CBSI/CNET ![The woman at left is a health care worker who'd contracted COVID-19 in March while working in the emergency room at Valley Medical Center in Renton, Washington. She's just donated COVID-19 convalescent plasma on April 17, and at right, a phlebotomist shuts down the machine at Bloodworks Northwest in Seattle. The plasma donation process, or plasmapheresis, separates blood plasma from red and white blood cells and platelets, and returns the cells and platelets back to the donor.]() The woman at left is a health care worker who'd contracted COVID-19 in March while working in the emergency room at Valley Medical Center in Renton, Washington. She's just donated COVID-19 convalescent plasma on April 17, and at right, a phlebotomist shuts down the machine at Bloodworks Northwest in Seattle. The plasma donation process, or plasmapheresis, separates blood plasma from red and white blood cells and platelets, and returns the cells and platelets back to the donor. CBSI/CNET ![One of the most basic tools for diagnosis of COVID-19 has been the thermometer. A key indicator of whether someone might be infected with the virus is a fever. Here, a Red Cross volunteer uses a digital thermometer to measure patients' temperatures in a pretriage tent outside the hospital in Corigliano-Rossano, Italy, on March 11.]() One of the most basic tools for diagnosis of COVID-19 has been the thermometer. A key indicator of whether someone might be infected with the virus is a fever. Here, a Red Cross volunteer uses a digital thermometer to measure patients' temperatures in a pretriage tent outside the hospital in Corigliano-Rossano, Italy, on March 11. CBSI/CNET ![Some thermometers allow a bit of distance from the patient. Here, kitted out with protective gear including a face shield, surgical mask and gloves, a field medical technician with the II Marine Expeditionary Force does coronavirus presceening of Marines returning from deployment overseas at the Cherry Point air station in North Carolina on March 24.]() Some thermometers allow a bit of distance from the patient. Here, kitted out with protective gear including a face shield, surgical mask and gloves, a field medical technician with the II Marine Expeditionary Force does coronavirus presceening of Marines returning from deployment overseas at the Cherry Point air station in North Carolina on March 24. CBSI/CNET ![A variation on temperature-taking technology is the infrared thermometer, which shows hot zones on the body. This one was in use at an outdoor screening station for COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, Russia, on March 20.]() A variation on temperature-taking technology is the infrared thermometer, which shows hot zones on the body. This one was in use at an outdoor screening station for COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, Russia, on March 20. CBSI/CNET ![In Changsha, China, local technology companies have designed "morning check" robots to greet employees returning to work. The robots can test body temperature, record data, give feedback and disinfect hands, easing the burden on staff to conduct checks for symptoms of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus.]() In Changsha, China, local technology companies have designed "morning check" robots to greet employees returning to work. The robots can test body temperature, record data, give feedback and disinfect hands, easing the burden on staff to conduct checks for symptoms of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus. CBSI/CNET ![It's vital for medical staffers to be outfitted in personal protective equipment, or PPE. The novel coronavirus, which emerged in December in Wuhan, China, is highly contagious, a danger both to the general populace and to the health care workers needed to care for them. Hence setups like this triage tent in use March 20 at Boston Medical Center, where patients can be evaluated before admission and treatment.]() It's vital for medical staffers to be outfitted in personal protective equipment, or PPE. The novel coronavirus, which emerged in December in Wuhan, China, is highly contagious, a danger both to the general populace and to the health care workers needed to care for them. Hence setups like this triage tent in use March 20 at Boston Medical Center, where patients can be evaluated before admission and treatment. CBSI/CNET ![Medical workers wearing protective gear, including face shields, look after a patient in the intensive care unit handling coronavirus patients at Erasme Hospital in Brussels on March 25. While some people who get diagnosed with COVID-19 exhibit only mild symptoms, for many the disease requires prolonged treatment in an ICU.]() Medical workers wearing protective gear, including face shields, look after a patient in the intensive care unit handling coronavirus patients at Erasme Hospital in Brussels on March 25. While some people who get diagnosed with COVID-19 exhibit only mild symptoms, for many the disease requires prolonged treatment in an ICU. CBSI/CNET ![Coronavirus patients in intensive care may need help breathing. For that, hospitals rely on ventilators, which push air into the lungs and perform sophisticated monitoring of oxygen levels. At the Samson Assuta Ashdod University Hospital in Ashdod, Israel, on March 16, the director of the epidemics service checks the control panel of a medical ventilator. The high-tech gear was on standby for patients with severe respiratory distress, when COVID-19 has filled their lungs with fluid to the point at which they can't breathe on their own.]() Coronavirus patients in intensive care may need help breathing. For that, hospitals rely on ventilators, which push air into the lungs and perform sophisticated monitoring of oxygen levels. At the Samson Assuta Ashdod University Hospital in Ashdod, Israel, on March 16, the director of the epidemics service checks the control panel of a medical ventilator. The high-tech gear was on standby for patients with severe respiratory distress, when COVID-19 has filled their lungs with fluid to the point at which they can't breathe on their own. CBSI/CNET ![This is an intensive care unit at the University Hospital Dresden in Germany, as seen on March 13. On the left side of the bed is a heart-lung machine, on top are the monitors for vital functions and to the right are a ventilator and infusion equipment.]() This is an intensive care unit at the University Hospital Dresden in Germany, as seen on March 13. On the left side of the bed is a heart-lung machine, on top are the monitors for vital functions and to the right are a ventilator and infusion equipment. CBSI/CNET ![This vacuum aspirator, a device that's used to remove mucus and other bodily fluids from a patient, is part of the equipment being set up on March 30 at an emergency field hospital in New York's Central Park, with 68 beds designated for respiratory care. The facility is the work of the Samaritan's Purse organization, and it will be administered by Mt. Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.Correction, April 18: This caption originally misidentified the device in the photo. It is an aspirator.]() This vacuum aspirator, a device that's used to remove mucus and other bodily fluids from a patient, is part of the equipment being set up on March 30 at an emergency field hospital in New York's Central Park, with 68 beds designated for respiratory care. The facility is the work of the Samaritan's Purse organization, and it will be administered by Mt. Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.Correction, April 18: This caption originally misidentified the device in the photo. It is an aspirator. CBSI/CNET ![At a Samaritan's Purse emergency field hospital in Cremona, Italy, on March 20, workers get ready to unload a 5,000-gallon liquid oxygen tank for use by the ICU.]() At a Samaritan's Purse emergency field hospital in Cremona, Italy, on March 20, workers get ready to unload a 5,000-gallon liquid oxygen tank for use by the ICU. CBSI/CNET ![In Ahmedabad, India, on March 31, a doctor demonstrates to medical staff how a ventilator works. Hospitals weren't just having to brace for a shortage of the machines, they also needed to train additional personnel on how to operate them.]() In Ahmedabad, India, on March 31, a doctor demonstrates to medical staff how a ventilator works. Hospitals weren't just having to brace for a shortage of the machines, they also needed to train additional personnel on how to operate them. CBSI/CNET ![In Gravatai, Brazil, on April 22, a technician at a General Motors factory repairs a ventilator from a public hospital. At least 25 employees are working in two shifts, seven days a week, to carry out maintenance and return the ventilators for further use in hospitals.]() In Gravatai, Brazil, on April 22, a technician at a General Motors factory repairs a ventilator from a public hospital. At least 25 employees are working in two shifts, seven days a week, to carry out maintenance and return the ventilators for further use in hospitals. CBSI/CNET ![Overcoming the pandemic requires determining who has the coronavirus and who doesn't, and that means testing. Here, a health care worker in full protective attire takes a sample via nasal swab from a person at a drive-thru coronavirus testing lab set up at Somerville Hospital in Somerville, Massachusetts, on March 18.]() Overcoming the pandemic requires determining who has the coronavirus and who doesn't, and that means testing. Here, a health care worker in full protective attire takes a sample via nasal swab from a person at a drive-thru coronavirus testing lab set up at Somerville Hospital in Somerville, Massachusetts, on March 18. CBSI/CNET ![Samples are also taken by throat swab, as here at a testing site in West Palm Beach, Florida, on March 16.]() Samples are also taken by throat swab, as here at a testing site in West Palm Beach, Florida, on March 16. CBSI/CNET ![COVID-19 collection kits for testing stand ready in the microbiology Lab at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston on March 18.]() COVID-19 collection kits for testing stand ready in the microbiology Lab at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston on March 18. CBSI/CNET ![This test tube contains a blood sample from a patient who tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus at Amphia Hospital in Breda, Netherlands. As of March 20, the hospital was carrying out between 400 and 500 tests a day for suspected cases of the virus.]() This test tube contains a blood sample from a patient who tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus at Amphia Hospital in Breda, Netherlands. As of March 20, the hospital was carrying out between 400 and 500 tests a day for suspected cases of the virus. CBSI/CNET ![A lab technician at Amphia Hospital performs a test for samples taken from patients suspected of having COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus.]() A lab technician at Amphia Hospital performs a test for samples taken from patients suspected of having COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. CBSI/CNET ![A lab worker tries to isolate the presence of the coronavirus during processing of swab tests in the molecular biology laboratory of the Ospedale Niguarda in Milan, Italy, on March 5.]() A lab worker tries to isolate the presence of the coronavirus during processing of swab tests in the molecular biology laboratory of the Ospedale Niguarda in Milan, Italy, on March 5. CBSI/CNET ![A computer screen shows the results of a coronavirus test in the Ospedale Niguarda molecular biology lab.]() A computer screen shows the results of a coronavirus test in the Ospedale Niguarda molecular biology lab. CBSI/CNET ![Because this coronavirus is so new, there isn't yet a vaccine for it. That remains months away, after a progression of trials to determine both effectiveness and product safety. But work is already underway to find the right chemical compound. Here, on March 20, this computer screen at Novavax labs in Rockville, Maryland, shows a computer model showing the protein structure of a potential COVID-19 vaccine. (For more, see Coronavirus medicine: The vaccines and drugs in development to treat COVID-19.)]() Because this coronavirus is so new, there isn't yet a vaccine for it. That remains months away, after a progression of trials to determine both effectiveness and product safety. But work is already underway to find the right chemical compound. Here, on March 20, this computer screen at Novavax labs in Rockville, Maryland, shows a computer model showing the protein structure of a potential COVID-19 vaccine. (For more, see Coronavirus medicine: The vaccines and drugs in development to treat COVID-19.) CBSI/CNET ![These vaccine researchers at Novavax are looking at a sample of a respiratory virus...]() These vaccine researchers at Novavax are looking at a sample of a respiratory virus... CBSI/CNET ![...while this researcher is studying protein samples.]() ...while this researcher is studying protein samples. CBSI/CNET ![Supercomputers are also being enlisted in the efforts to discover cures for COVID-19. Pictured here is IBM's Summit, the world's fastest supercomputer today. It's already been used to screen 8,000 chemical compounds in a search for medicine that could thwart the infectious capabilities of COVID-19, and researchers in that effort at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee have recommended 77 drug compounds for experimental testing.]() Supercomputers are also being enlisted in the efforts to discover cures for COVID-19. Pictured here is IBM's Summit, the world's fastest supercomputer today. It's already been used to screen 8,000 chemical compounds in a search for medicine that could thwart the infectious capabilities of COVID-19, and researchers in that effort at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee have recommended 77 drug compounds for experimental testing. CBSI/CNET ![Meanwhile, 3D printers offer a potential way to quickly produce items like face shields needed in large numbers. The L1 3D printer from startup Carbon can create a lightweight, springy midsole for an Adidas running shoe in less than a half hour, and the company plans to send face shield designs to its network of customers who've bought its 3D printers. It's also working on nasal swab designs. Most 3D printers today are best suited to making plastic parts, not the cloth or filters used in face masks.]() Meanwhile, 3D printers offer a potential way to quickly produce items like face shields needed in large numbers. The L1 3D printer from startup Carbon can create a lightweight, springy midsole for an Adidas running shoe in less than a half hour, and the company plans to send face shield designs to its network of customers who've bought its 3D printers. It's also working on nasal swab designs. Most 3D printers today are best suited to making plastic parts, not the cloth or filters used in face masks. CBSI/CNET ![At the Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design in Halle, Germany, a 3D printer prints a face mask on March 31. The project is still in the prototype production phase, but the goal is to make the masks available free of charge after acceptance by Halle's disaster control authority.]() At the Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design in Halle, Germany, a 3D printer prints a face mask on March 31. The project is still in the prototype production phase, but the goal is to make the masks available free of charge after acceptance by Halle's disaster control authority. CBSI/CNET ![The workshop manager inspects a mask prototype from the 3D printer in the plastics workshop at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design. Currently, only up to 20 pieces per day can be printed with the thermoplastic material, but the number is to be increased.]() The workshop manager inspects a mask prototype from the 3D printer in the plastics workshop at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design. Currently, only up to 20 pieces per day can be printed with the thermoplastic material, but the number is to be increased. CBSI/CNET ![For protection against the coronavirus, not all masks are created equal. Doctors and emergency workers strive to use N95 masks, which incorporate a respirator and fit the face snugly. N95 masks are designed to block at least 95% of very small particles. These masks have been in very short supply. Here, a food delivery worker in Cardiff, Wales, is seen wearing an N95 mask on March 8.]() For protection against the coronavirus, not all masks are created equal. Doctors and emergency workers strive to use N95 masks, which incorporate a respirator and fit the face snugly. N95 masks are designed to block at least 95% of very small particles. These masks have been in very short supply. Here, a food delivery worker in Cardiff, Wales, is seen wearing an N95 mask on March 8. CBSI/CNET ![On March 11, a police lieutenant in Los Angeles helps assemble personal safety kits consisting of an N95 mask, work gloves and nitrile gloves for LAPD first responders, to be used to protect against exposure.]() On March 11, a police lieutenant in Los Angeles helps assemble personal safety kits consisting of an N95 mask, work gloves and nitrile gloves for LAPD first responders, to be used to protect against exposure. CBSI/CNET ![For those of us without protective gear, but who need to venture out for groceries and supplies, there are certain guidelines to follow. In some places, you may get promptings from a robot. Here, a Pepper robot from Softbank stands on duty in the checkout area of the Edeka store in Lindlar, Germany, where it advises customers to keep their distance and to avoid "hamsterkauf" shopping -- that is, panic buying, or hoarding like a hamster.]() For those of us without protective gear, but who need to venture out for groceries and supplies, there are certain guidelines to follow. In some places, you may get promptings from a robot. Here, a Pepper robot from Softbank stands on duty in the checkout area of the Edeka store in Lindlar, Germany, where it advises customers to keep their distance and to avoid "hamsterkauf" shopping -- that is, panic buying, or hoarding like a hamster. CBSI/CNET ![This remote-controlled robot was put to use on March 16 to disinfect a residential area in Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus outbreak began late last year.]() This remote-controlled robot was put to use on March 16 to disinfect a residential area in Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus outbreak began late last year. CBSI/CNET *This article, [Trump recklessly suggests injecting disinfectant to kill coronavirus. Why he's wrong](https://www.cnet.com/news/trump-suggests-injecting-disinfectant-to-kill-coronavirus-heres-why-hes-wrong/#ftag=CAD-06-10abe3d), originally appeared on [CNET.com](https://www.cnet.com/#ftag=YHF65cbda0).*  During a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump floated the idea of injecting disinfectant or using ultraviolet or "very powerful" light inside the body as a [coronavirus](https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/coronavirus-update-covid-19-2020-04-24/) remedy. Disinfectants are toxic chemicals that are poisonous to the human body and should not be injected. Similarly, ultraviolet light contains energy powerful enough to damage DNA. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I see the disinfectant that knocks it out in a minute," [said Trump](https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1253448500676898818?s=20), turning to Deborah Birx, the coronavirus response coordinator in the White House task force and Bill Bryan, head of the science and technology directorate at the Department of Homeland Security. "Is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning?" he asked. Both claims were immediately criticized by doctors and physicians. > Hi, ER Doc here. > > Do NOT inject or consume ANY disinfectants in an attempt to kill COVID19. > > — Sam Ghali, M.D. (@EM\_RESUS) [April 23, 2020](https://twitter.com/EM_RESUS/status/1253458355517042689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) > Hi, ER Doc here. > > Do NOT inject or consume ANY disinfectants in an attempt to kill COVID19. > > — Sam Ghali, M.D. (@EM\_RESUS) [April 23, 2020](https://twitter.com/EM_RESUS/status/1253458355517042689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) The president's claims came after a short presentation by Bryan which showed a slide discussing how commonly used disinfectants such as bleach and [isopropyl alcohol](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK208299/) can work to kill the virus. These disinfectants are **only** useful in killing the coronavirus on surfaces, **outside** the human body, like kitchen counter tops and tables. They are toxic. They should never be ingested or injected. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "They're not meant for internal consumption," says Ian Musgrave, a pharmacologist and senior lecturer at the University of Adelaide. "Things like disinfectant and bleach are very good at killing viruses and bacteria but they're also very good at killing our own cells." Musgrave points out the purpose of a *drug* is to "specifically" target viruses and bacteria without doing damage to the human body. Disinfectants and UV lights are not drugs. "These things can't tell the difference between viruses and your own cells," he says. You cannot disinfect your body from the inside. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Many disinfectants, like household bleach, can create extensive organ damage in the gastrointestinal tract and throat if they are ingested in high amounts. Musgrave notes this is "incredibly painful and not pleasant." Exposure to vapors can cause lung injury. Injection of disinfectants can be particularly damaging -- [as shown in a case study published in the journal Toxicology Observation in 2013](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576498/pdf/13181_2012_Article_259.pdf) -- where a patient's blood cells were ripped apart by household bleach and a renal transplant was required. Following speculation about disinfectants as a treatment for coronavirus, [Lysol and Dettol maker RB](https://www.rb.com/media/news/2020/april/improper-use-of-disinfectants/) on Friday issued a statement that saying "**under no circumstance** should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route)." The White House briefing Thursday also included the notion "sunlight impedes virus transmission" and Trump appeared to tout ultraviolet or "very powerful light" as a potential treatment option if it was brought "inside the body". The [World Health Organization's current advice on UV light lamps](https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters) is they "should not be used to sterilize hands or other areas of the skin." Ultraviolet light -- like that emitted by the sun and other sources -- is [known to be damaging to the skin and is the cause for practically all skin cancers](https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/63295/cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sun-protection-sport-and-recreation/sun-protection-information-for-sporting-groups/how-ultraviolet-uv-radiation-causes-skin-cancer/). Both UV and disinfectants should only be used for cleaning surfaces. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "If you want to disinfect surfaces, ultraviolet is very good at disinfecting surfaces," says Musgrave, "and it's great to rub down the your benches and tabletops with 70% alcohol" before reiterating they are not meant to be ingested. The [best ways to protect yourself](https://www.cnet.com/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-coronavirus/#ftag=CAD0610abe3d) from COVID-19 remain: - Washing your hands frequently - [Social distancing](https://www.cnet.com/news/social-distancing-how-to-do-it-who-should-do-it-and-for-how-long/#ftag=CAD0610abe3d) - Avoiding touching your mouth, eyes, nose - Practice good respiratory hygiene Advertisement Article continues below this ad There are **[no FDA approved treatments or vaccines](https://www.cnet.com/news/coronavirus-treatments-hydroxychloroquine-vaccines-and-drugs-for-covid-19/#ftag=CAD0610abe3d)** for [dealing with a COVID-19 infection](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/clinical-guidance-management-patients.html). Instead, doctors manage symptoms of the disease as best they can. There are dozens of potential treatment options being explored across the globe, but none have passed safety and efficacy trials in humans. April 24, 2020 Jackson Ryan San Antonio Express News Logo ### Want more Express-News? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. [Add Preferred Source](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=expressnews.com) MORE NEWS [Eastside mural celebrates resilience, pride of civil rights movement](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/eastside-pride-mural-san-antonio-21289161.php) [The 300-foot mural from local artist Kaldric Dow, titled “Eastside Pride,” features images of the city's Black community from the 1960s and 1970s.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/eastside-pride-mural-san-antonio-21289161.php) [![San Antonio artist Kaldric Dow has completed a 300-foot mural on Nolan Street titled “Eastside Pride,” featuring images from the 1960s and 1970s and the Rev. R.A Callies, founder of San Antonio’s Martin Luther King Jr. March.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/eastside-pride-mural-san-antonio-21289161.php) [Belgian Boys bringing free bite-sized breakfast treats to San Antonio](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/belgian-boys-free-breakfast-texas-tour-21302204.php) [A hot pink food truck will be serving heart-shaped pancakes from Tuesday through Sunday at various Target and H-E-B stores.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/belgian-boys-free-breakfast-texas-tour-21302204.php) [![The Brooklyn-based Belgian Boys is reviving its seasonal heart-shaped pancakes for Valentine’s Day with a food truck tour throughout Texas. Its hot pink food truck is bringing a free bite-sized breakfast to San Antonio this week. ]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/belgian-boys-free-breakfast-texas-tour-21302204.php) [Two teenage passengers killed, driver critically injured in Pearsall crash](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/pearsall-fatal-car-crash-teen-passengers-21302113.php) [The driver of a sedan that the teens were riding in was airlifted in critical condition to a San Antonio hospital, according to a news report.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/pearsall-fatal-car-crash-teen-passengers-21302113.php) [![A deadly crash killed two teenagers Saturday evening in Pearsall, and the driver of the sedan they were riding in was airlifted to a San Antonio hospital. ]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/pearsall-fatal-car-crash-teen-passengers-21302113.php) [SAPD: Man fatally struck after jumping from moving vehicle on Loop 410](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-pedestrian-fatality-loop-410-21301876.php) [The man, 44, was arguing with someone in the vehicle before he jumped out, police said.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-pedestrian-fatality-loop-410-21301876.php) [![A man was struck and killed Sunday morning in the 5900 block of Northwest Loop 410, after he jumped from a moving vehicle, San Antonio police said. ]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-pedestrian-fatality-loop-410-21301876.php) [Selena's sister and mom dined at Mi Tierra in San Antonio this weekend](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [Suzette Quintanilla and her mother, Marcella, visited the special altar honoring the late Tejano star, located in the restaurant’s Mural Room.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [![A tribute to the late Tejano star Selena at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) San Antonio Express News Logo ### Want more Express-News? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. [Add Preferred Source](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=expressnews.com) MOST POPULAR [![Some of those reports allege that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are now carrying out "door-to-door" sweeps in San Antonio-area neighborhoods.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Is ICE going door to door in San Antonio? Here's what we know.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [People posting to social media claim the federal immigration agents were at spots including near Poplar and Zarzamora.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Selena's sister and mom dined at Mi Tierra in San Antonio this weekend](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [Suzette Quintanilla and her mother, Marcella, visited the special altar honoring the late Tejano star, located in the restaurant’s Mural Room.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [![Little Red Barn Steakhouse is one of the 10 best restaurants for seniors in San Antonio, according to Express-News restaurant critic Mike Sutter.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/article/best-san-antonio-restaurants-for-seniors-21293104.php) [San Antonio's Top Restaurants](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/) [The 10 best San Antonio restaurants for seniors](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/article/best-san-antonio-restaurants-for-seniors-21293104.php) [Forecasts](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/) [Texas warming up Sunday, but is another freeze coming tonight?](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/cold-freeze-texas-front-tonight-weather-21300471.php) [![Shown are the expected low temperatures across Texas tonight and into early Monday morning.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/cold-freeze-texas-front-tonight-weather-21300471.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [San Antonio Explained: How did the city's MLK march grow to what it is today](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-explained-mlk-march-celebration-21297200.php) [![Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis (center, right) alongside San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros (center, left) at the city's debut MLK March in 1987.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-explained-mlk-march-celebration-21297200.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Here's what to do if ICE agents approach you in Texas](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/what-to-do-ice-immigration-texas-rights-21292890.php) [![Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents deported Jose Gonzalez Carranza on April 8. Gonzalez had been granted a reprieve from deportation after his wife, Army Pfc. Barbara Vieyra, was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2010. But ICE restarted deportation proceedings without explanation in 2018. He has since been allowed to return home to his 12-year-old daughter in Arizona who is a U.S. citizen. \[U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement\]]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/what-to-do-ice-immigration-texas-rights-21292890.php) [Forecasts](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/) [How long will South Texas stay below freezing? Here’s a timeline.](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/freeze-tonight-texas-timeline-temperatures-21298840.php) [![Shown are the potential temperatures across South Texas late Saturday and into early Sunday.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/freeze-tonight-texas-timeline-temperatures-21298840.php) [![Some of those reports allege that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are now carrying out "door-to-door" sweeps in San Antonio-area neighborhoods.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Is ICE going door to door in San Antonio? Here's what we know.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [People posting to social media claim the federal immigration agents were at spots including near Poplar and Zarzamora.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/is-ice-going-door-to-door-san-antonio-immigration-21298965.php) [Forecasts](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/) [Texas warming up Sunday, but is another freeze coming tonight?](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/cold-freeze-texas-front-tonight-weather-21300471.php) [![Shown are the expected low temperatures across Texas tonight and into early Monday morning.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/cold-freeze-texas-front-tonight-weather-21300471.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Here's what to do if ICE agents approach you in Texas](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/what-to-do-ice-immigration-texas-rights-21292890.php) [![Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents deported Jose Gonzalez Carranza on April 8. Gonzalez had been granted a reprieve from deportation after his wife, Army Pfc. Barbara Vieyra, was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2010. But ICE restarted deportation proceedings without explanation in 2018. He has since been allowed to return home to his 12-year-old daughter in Arizona who is a U.S. citizen. \[U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement\]]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/what-to-do-ice-immigration-texas-rights-21292890.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [Selena's sister and mom dined at Mi Tierra in San Antonio this weekend](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [Suzette Quintanilla and her mother, Marcella, visited the special altar honoring the late Tejano star, located in the restaurant’s Mural Room.](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/suzette-marcella-quintanilla-dined-popular-san-21300779.php) [![Little Red Barn Steakhouse is one of the 10 best restaurants for seniors in San Antonio, according to Express-News restaurant critic Mike Sutter.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/article/best-san-antonio-restaurants-for-seniors-21293104.php) [San Antonio's Top Restaurants](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/) [The 10 best San Antonio restaurants for seniors](https://www.expressnews.com/food/restaurants/article/best-san-antonio-restaurants-for-seniors-21293104.php) [News](https://www.expressnews.com/news/) [San Antonio Explained: How did the city's MLK march grow to what it is today](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-explained-mlk-march-celebration-21297200.php) [![Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis (center, right) alongside San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros (center, left) at the city's debut MLK March in 1987.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-explained-mlk-march-celebration-21297200.php) [Forecasts](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/) [How long will South Texas stay below freezing? Here’s a timeline.](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/freeze-tonight-texas-timeline-temperatures-21298840.php) [![Shown are the potential temperatures across South Texas late Saturday and into early Sunday.]()](https://www.expressnews.com/san-antonio-weather/forecast/article/freeze-tonight-texas-timeline-temperatures-21298840.php) Let's Play - [![Really Bad Chess]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/really-bad-chess) [Really Bad Chess](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/really-bad-chess) - [![Flipart]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/flip-art) [Flipart](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/flip-art) - [![Cross\|word]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/crossword) [Cross\|word](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/crossword) - [![Bongo]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/play/bongo) [Bongo](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/play/bongo) - [![SpellTower]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/spelltower) [SpellTower](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/spelltower) - [![Pile-Up Poker]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/play/pile-up-poker) [Pile-Up Poker](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/play/pile-up-poker) - [![Typeshift]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/typeshift) [Typeshift](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/typeshift) - [![Wordbind]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/wordbind) [Wordbind](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/wordbind) - [![CubeClear]()](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/cubeclear) [CubeClear](https://www.puzzmo.com/+/expressnews/game/cubeclear) Return To Top [San Antonio Express News Logo](https://www.expressnews.com/) About [Our Company](https://www.hearst.com/newspapers/san-antonio-express-news)[Careers](https://eevd.fa.us6.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_11010)[Our Use of AI](https://www.expressnews.com/ai_use/)[Standards and Practices](https://www.expressnews.com/standards/) Contact [Customer Service](https://www.expressnews.com/customer_service/)[Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.expressnews.com/subscriberfaqs/)[Newsroom Contacts](https://www.expressnews.com/newsroom_contacts/) Services [Archives](https://www.expressnews.com/archive/search/subscriber)[Advertising](http://www.hearstmediasa.com/)[Photo Store](https://photostore.expressnews.com/) Account [Subscribe](http://www.expressnews.com/subscribeofferfooter)[Newsletters](https://link.expressnews.com/join/signup-saen)[e-Edition](https://subscription.expressnews.com/eedition?siteID=SA_SAEN) About - [Our Company](https://www.hearst.com/newspapers/san-antonio-express-news) - [Careers](https://eevd.fa.us6.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_11010) - [Our Use of AI](https://www.expressnews.com/ai_use/) - [Standards and Practices](https://www.expressnews.com/standards/) Contact - [Customer Service](https://www.expressnews.com/customer_service/) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.expressnews.com/subscriberfaqs/) - [Newsroom Contacts](https://www.expressnews.com/newsroom_contacts/) Services - [Archives](https://www.expressnews.com/archive/search/subscriber) - [Advertising](http://www.hearstmediasa.com/) - [Photo Store](https://photostore.expressnews.com/) Account - [Subscribe](http://www.expressnews.com/subscribeofferfooter) - [Newsletters](https://link.expressnews.com/join/signup-saen) - [e-Edition](https://subscription.expressnews.com/eedition?siteID=SA_SAEN) Hearst Newspapers Logo © 2026 Hearst Newspapers, LLC [Terms of Use](https://www.expressnews.com/terms/)[Privacy Notice](https://www.expressnews.com/privacy/)[DAA Industry Opt Out](https://www.expressnews.com/privacy/#daaindustryoptout) [Your Privacy Choices (Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads)](https://www.expressnews.com/yourdata/)