A meta-analysis has shown that published trial data indicate that zinc supplements may have a role in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections caused by viruses other than SARS-CoV-2 in adults.

Pooled data from 8 randomized controlled trials that included around 3,500 individuals suggested that five infections were prevented for every 100 person-months of oral or intranasal zinc treatment. Among around 1,000 people getting respiratory virus infections, treatment with sublingual or intranasal zinc formulations led to reduction in symptom duration by an average of 2 days compared to placebo. However, the strength of evidence, especially for zinc as a treatment for ongoing infection, was low. The findings are published in BMJ Open… (Medpage Today)