Nasal Interferon-Alpha Spray Significantly Cuts COVID-19 Risk in Cancer Patients, Clinical Study Finds

A pioneering clinical trial has demonstrated that a straightforward daily nasal spray containing interferon-alpha (IFN-α) can substantially lower the likelihood of COVID-19 infection among cancer patients. This innovative approach offers a promising new layer of protection for individuals with compromised immune systems, who are particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from the virus.

The study, published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases in 2025, revealed that the nasal spray reduced COVID-19 infection risk by approximately 40% compared to a placebo. Interferon-alpha is a naturally occurring protein renowned for its broad antiviral properties, and its application via nasal spray provides a targeted, easy-to-administer preventative strategy.

According to Dr. Michelle Yong, an infectious disease specialist at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, these findings mark an important shift in COVID-19 prevention efforts for immunocompromised populations. She emphasized that despite vaccination efforts, cancer patients often remain at heightened risk for severe illness and complications. The intranasal interferon-alpha spray appears to be a safe and effective addition to existing protective measures, especially for those who do not develop robust immune responses to vaccines.

Professor Monica Slavin, head of infectious diseases at Peter Mac, noted the potential broader implications of this research. She highlighted that such a nasal spray, with its broad antiviral activity, could benefit other high-risk groups like transplant recipients, individuals with chronic illnesses, and older adults. The treatment was well tolerated in the trial, with no notable side effects, and showed high acceptability among patients.

This innovative preventative measure could help reduce COVID-19-related illnesses, treatment delays, and hospitalizations, complementing vaccination and other public health strategies. As the fight against COVID-19 continues, this nasal spray offers hope for enhanced protection of vulnerable populations.

For more detailed information, the study by Michelle K Yong et al. is available at DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaf409, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases. This advancement is brought to you by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, contributing to ongoing efforts in COVID-19 prevention.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-nasal-spray-covid-cancer-patients.html