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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Health and Wellness devider This flu season, salt water isn't enough to treat sore throat

This flu season, salt water isn't enough to treat sore throat

By MBrand
Published Feb 20, 2026 11:26 am  |  Updated Feb 20, 2026 07:14 pm
As flu cases arise amid unpredictable weather shifts, some health experts are urging the public to rethink one of the most common home remedies for sore throat: saltwater gargling. While warm saline solution can provide temporary comfort, some health experts emphasize that it’s not enough to kill bacteria and viruses, making it insufficient as a standalone treatment for flu-related throat infections.
According to a local pharmacist, Arshie Larga, saline gargles help by drawing out excess fluid from inflamed tissues and loosening mucus. However, during flu season, when most sore throats are caused by viral infections, symptomatic relief isn’t enough. “Salt water does not disinfect the throat. It does not eliminate the viruses that cause the inflammation,” explained Arshie Larga. “People feel relief, but the underlying cause persists.”
This gap between comfort and actual protection has prompted renewed attention toward clinically tested antiseptic gargles such as Hexetidine (Bactidol®), a long-trusted brand in the Philippines. Unlike salt water, Bactidol contains hexetidine, an active ingredient proven to kill a broad range of sore throat–causing bacteria and viruses.
Studies show that Hexetidine (Bactidol®) gargle works in as fast as 30 seconds, making it one of the fastest-acting antiseptic gargles available locally. Its long-lasting effect is another key advantage: the solution forms a protective coating in the throat, providing relief and antimicrobial protection for up to 12 hours. Laboratory tests also show that it kills up to 99.99% of sore throat–causing viruses, offering a level of defense far beyond home remedies.
Pharmacists guide patients in finding reliable treatments that go beyond temporary relief. “People want something that not only feels good but actually works on the root cause,” shared Pharmacist Arshie Larga. “They come in saying salt water helped for a few minutes, but the pain comes back quickly.”
The Department of Health has also reminded the public to follow basic precautions, especially during flu season. The DOH stresses the importance of washing hands, proper rest and diet, alongside wearing face masks when going out (Untalan, 2026)1.
Healthcare providers continue to emphasize that while natural remedies remain part of Filipino culture, it’s important to distinguish between soothing measures and evidence-based treatments. Saltwater gargling may ease irritation, but it is not a shield against viruses.
With flu cases around, experts recommend keeping reliable throat protection on hand. For many, that means turning to clinically proven solutions like Hexetidine (Bactidol®), which offers fast action, long-lasting protection, and powerful antiviral efficacy—all crucial advantages when navigating the health challenges of the season.
As Arshie Larga put it, “This flu season, comfort is good—but protection is better. And protection requires more than salt water.”
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
For more information, visit: https://www.bactidol.com.ph/
ASC REF J0198P012926B

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