Nasal Irrigation to Reduce COVID-19 Morbidity

The purpose of this study is to evaluate if using nasal irrigation, also known as nasal lavage, can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with COVID-19. Nasal lavage consists of running salt water in one nostril and out the other to get rid of germs. Saline nasal irrigation with Betadine or baking soda will be evaluated.

Participants will be asked to do several things during this study: watch a one minute video on YouTube, use a nasal irrigation device twice a day for 14 days, complete a one-time detailed survey and keep a research diary about their usage and symptoms using an on-line application called Qualtrics, agree to be texted reminders, be called on the phone if they fail to complete the daily diary two days in a row, agree to be called four times, and provide contact information for a secondary person who can be contacted if the primary participant is unavailable.

Participation in this study does not involve any significant risks. However, some people may find using nasal irrigation causes them some discomfort.

While there are no known benefits to participating in the study participants may see a reduction in their symptoms more quickly than if they didn't participate in the study.

Inclusion criteria

• Capable of understanding and providing informed consent using remote consent
• Willingness and physical capacity to initiate nasal irrigation and to adhere to the protocol
• Willing to give additional contact phone number of another person who will know the health status of the participant and agree to be contacted if needed for follow-up
• 55 years of age or older
• Has access to and the willingness and ability to adhere to the technological requirement of the study i.e. able to use a smartphone for voice and text and email and access to the internet at home
• English speaking
• Positive rapid COVID-19 test performed the day of or the day before enrollment

Exclusion criteria

• Currently doing daily nasal irrigation
• Current supplemental oxygen therapy
• Unwillingness to try nasal irrigation or use nasal irrigation twice a day
• Nasal surgery within the past year or chronic sinusitis
• Prior COVID-19 infection or positive test >1 day before present
• Symptoms longer than 7 days prior to testing as reported to researchers
• Allergy to iodine or shellfish
• Participation in another prospective COVID related research project (clinical trial).
• Employed and working as a healthcare worker.