Recent case studies on the use of ozone to combat coronavirus: Problems and perspectives

Coronavirus pandemic has created havoc in the world. COVID-19 is now officially labeled as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus-SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, it is equally important to combat the virus both inside the human body as well as in the environment. These viruses, being RNA viruses, are found to be susceptible to ozone. Ozone being an unstable molecule can breakup into its split products namely reactive oxygen species and ozonides creating a toxic environment for these viruses. Ozone mainly prevents the membrane fusion with the host cell, thus interfering with their replication. With vast applications of the gas, it has created a new spark in the field of medicine in combating these viruses and many other organisms. In this context, this article provides insights from recent clinical and research studies on the problems and possibilities in employing the ozone to combat the coronaviruses. [Display omitted] •Characterizes the mechanism of ozone in killing the coronaviruses.•Ozone can be used to combat the coronaviruses both in body and environment.•Suitability of O3 for COVID-19 is demonstrated using recent clinical/research studies.•Highlights multi-actions of ozone for its use face-mask and sanitizer.