Sore throats are more than bacterial infections!⁶⁰

Did you know more than 85% of all sore throat infections in adults and children younger than 5 years of age are caused by viruses, which antibacterial solutions or antibiotics simply can’t remedy.⁶⁰

At the first sign of a throat irritation, reach for the power of an antiseptic solution that works and is effective in killing the germs associated with both viral and bacterial infections.

Rely on BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle with its powerful 3-way antiseptic action.

Help stop that itch early

Learn more about sore throats

The right way to gargle

Rely on BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle with its powerful 3-way antiseptic action.

BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle is a povidone-iodine medicated solution that is effective in killing the germs associated with both viral and bacterial infections.²

At the first sign of a sore throat, gargle with BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle for 30 seconds¹. Use up to 4 times a day¹. Refer to the package insert for full directions.

BETADINE^® – Used worldwide in healthcare institutions and homes for over 55 years

Germ-killing action in 30 seconds

A quick gargle can kill the bacteria and viruses in your mouth and throat¹

Helps stop a sore throat from developing

Kills germs that can cause sore throats and stops a small irritation before it becomes a big one.^1,10,14

Protect those you love

BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle not only protects you from a throat infection but also stops the spread of germs to your friends and family around you.¹

Dealing with a sore throat? Here’s what you need to know

What is a sore throat?

What are bacteria and viruses?

Are antibiotics necessary for a sore throat?

Why is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle better for our sore throats than salt water?⁸

What are the causes of a sore throat?

How is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle different from most cosmetic mouthwash brands on the market?

Who should not use BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle as a care and preventative measure against throat and oral infections?

As BETADINE^® has a dark/reddish brown colour, does it stain?

Follow these simple steps to bring smiles back!

Pour one full green cap of BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle solution, undiluted.

Swish the solution briefly in the mouth.

Tilt your head backwards and gargle with BETADINE^® Mouthwash & BETADINE^® Gargle for 30 seconds.

Spit out the solution. Repeat every 2-4 hours for up to 4 times a day or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Adults and children over the age of 3³

Use as a gargle

At the first sign of a throat irritation, use 1 full green cap of BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle and gargle for 30 seconds¹, 4 times a day.¹

Do not dilute. Do not swallow.

Use as a mouthwash

For inflammation/infection: Use 1 full green cap of BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle. Rinse mouth for 30 seconds and repeat for up to 4 times a day.

Do not dilute. Do not swallow.

For daily routine mouthwash: Mix 1 full green cap of BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle with 2 full green caps of water. Rinse mouth for 30 seconds.

Do not swallow.

Healthy healing starts with BETADINE^®

Scalp Care

When it comes to scalp infections, we’ve got you covered!

Learn More

Wound Care

Treat wounds early and keep your family healthy.

Learn More

Intimate Care

Gentle protection for daily care, freshness and confidence.

Learn More

What are bacteria and viruses?

While bacteria and viruses can both cause mild to serious infections, they are different from each other. This is important to understand, because bacterial and viral infections must be treated differently. Misusing antibiotics to treat viral infections contributes to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

Bacteria and viruses, too tiny to be seen by the naked eye, can cause similar symptoms, such as a sore throat, and are often spread in the same way, but that’s where the similarities end.^7,19

A bacterium is a single, but complex, cell. It can survive on its own, inside or outside the body. Most bacteria aren’t harmful. In fact, we have many bacteria on and inside our body, especially in the gut, to help digest food.^7,19

Viruses are smaller and are not cells. Unlike bacteria, they need a host such as a human or animal, to multiply. Viruses cause infections by entering and multiplying inside the host’s healthy cells.¹⁹

Bacteria cause bacterial infections, such as throat infections, and viruses cause viral infections. It is important to know whether a bacterium or virus is the cause of an infection, because the treatments differ. Examples of bacterial infections include whooping cough, strep throat, ear infection and urinary tract infection (UTI). Viral infections include the common cold, flu, most coughs and bronchitis.⁷

It can be difficult to know what causes an infection, because viral and bacterial infections can cause similar symptoms. Your doctor may need a sample of your urine, stool or blood for a ‘culture’ test to have the bugs identified under a microscope.¹⁹

Doctors usually treat bacterial infections with antibiotics. They either kill bacteria or stop them multiplying. But since antibiotic resistance is a growing problem, antibiotics may be prescribed only for serious bacterial infections.⁷

The treatment of viral infections can include:⁷

managing symptoms, such as using honey for coughs and drinking warm fluids, like chicken soup for oral hydration;
taking paracetamol to relieve fever;
stopping viral reproduction using local antiseptics, antiviral medicines, such as medicines for HIV/AIDS and cold sores;
preventing infection in the first place, such as using vaccines for flu and hepatitis

Are antibiotics necessary for a sore throat?

Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria. Because most sore throats are caused by a virus, antibiotics usually don't work. Most health authorities advise against the overuse of antibiotics so that resistance doesn’t become a big problem.

If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor. Note that antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections.⁸

For the same reasons, other viral infections like colds, flu and most coughs and bronchitis should not be treated with antibiotics either.

By using an anti-bacterial solution like BETADINE^® Mouthwash & BETADINE^® Gargle regularly, you can prevent a throat infection

Why is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle better for our sore throats than salt water?⁸

There is no clear scientific evidence that salt water has germ-killing action.

BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle has shown its germ-killing activity against the viruses and bacteria that can cause sore throats. With a 30 seconds gargle, 4 times a day, BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle can kill germs and reduce the chances of contracting flu.¹

What are the causes of a sore throat?

Approximately 70% of sore throats are caused by viruses⁹ such as Adenovirus, Rhinovirus, Influenza virus A or Coronavirus^5,10. These viruses are commonly what would be referred to as colds and flu viruses. Only 10% of sore throats are caused by bacteria, mostly Group A-haemolytic streptococcus¹¹. This type of infection is generally what is normally referred to as a strep throat.

These viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).⁸

A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is important to use a medication that is effective across the various types and classes of germs.⁸ BETADINE^® Mouthwash & BETADINE^® Gargle can be that very effective deterrent.

How is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle different from most cosmetic mouthwash brands on the market?

Cosmetic mouthwashes are meant to freshen breath while BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle is a medicated formulation for treatment and protection against oral and throat infection.⁸

Who should not use BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle as a care and preventative measure against throat and oral infections?

Those sensitive to iodine
Pregnant and lactating mothers are encouraged to avoid using BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle.³

As BETADINE^® has a dark/reddish brown colour, does it stain?

The active ingredient in BETADINE^®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a reddish/brown colour.³

If you accidentally get BETADINE^® Mouthwash & BETADINE^® Gargle on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For synthetic fibres, BETADINE^® can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.^12,33,34

CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.²⁰

What is a sore throat?

Oral or throat infection is a common term used to define many different infections of the mouth and throat. Sore throats often begin as an itch, pain or irritation, but are actually more than that. Often related to colds and flu,⁵ a sore throat is a symptom of the inflammation of the pharynx (pharyngitis) or tonsils (tonsillitis), or both (pharyngotonsillitis), and in most cases caused by viruses (70% of cases). Symptoms such as a fever (either low-or-high grade), nausea, aches and pains, might be present.⁴ Only 10% of sore throats in adults are caused by bacteria (strep throat).⁹ Only bacterial infections are treated by antibiotics or, in other words, antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Many leading organisations now recommend against using antibiotics unless there is clear evidence of a bacterial infection.¹⁹

What you should do

The moment your throat has an itch, feels sore or has any of the throat symptoms mentioned above, gargle with BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle for 30 seconds, 4 times a day.¹

BETADINE^® Mouthwash & BETADINE^® Gargle- perfect to sort out a sore throat and keep you fresh

What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

Our bodies are home to probiotics that are valuable to the body. They are living beneficial organisms (usually bacteria).

Under healthy conditions, probiotics in our intimate area environment can maintain optimal pH balance, support and restore immune functions and prevent unfriendly organisms from thriving.

Prebiotics are non-living ingredients that promote the growth of probiotics.

Probiotics need prebiotics to grow quickly and reduce growth of unfriendly organisms.³²

BETADINE^® Daily Intimate Wash helps to maintain a healthy probiotic balance in your body.

The important role of vaginal pH.

A healthy vaginal pH is somewhere between 3.5 to 4.5. The vaginal pH is mainly regulated by the “good” bacteria called lactobacilli that rule the vaginal ecosystem. When your pH is imbalanced, you will most likely notice an unpleasant odour and/or irritation of the vulva which are signs of an imbalance like bacterial or fungal infection.^32,38-40

BETADINE^® Daily Intimate Wash helps to maintain your vagina’s essential PH balance.

Do

Include our BETADINE^® Daily Intimate Care to your hygiene routine (Intimate Foam Soap)
Change your sanitary pads or tampons every few hours
Wear cotton undergarments to encourage airflow and allow your intimate area to breathe
Identify the cause – is it an infection or maybe a pH imbalance in your intimate area? Consult your doctor to find out
Use our BETADINE^® Intimate Wipes throughout the day when you feel the need

Don’t

Use regular soaps or scented shower gels as they can disrupt the lactobacilli that live in your vaginal area. These naturally occurring good bacteria protect us against intimate area infections and keep the normal vaginal flora intact.
Wear non-cotton undergarments because these do not encourage airflow and do not allow your vaginal area to breathe.

What is natural vaginal flora? ³²

“Flora” is the term used to describe the microorganisms (friendly bacteria) that live in and on our bodies. In the intimate area, the normal flora actually helps to prevent infection. The normal flora that lives in our intimate area are called lactobacilli. If the intimate flora becomes unbalanced, it makes it more likely for you to feel discomfort in your intimate area.

BETADINE^® Daily Intimate Wash helps to maintain your vagina’s essential PH balance.

Why should you stop using your regular soap bar or shower gel for your intimate area wash?³²

Most regular soap & shower gels may disrupt your pH level and upset the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. This is due to their alkaline pH between 9-10, making it more likely for you to feel uncomfortable

BETADINE^® Daily Intimate Wash helps to maintain your vagina’s essential PH balance.

For little emergencies at home, what First Aid items should I keep on hand?

In case of an emergency, a well-stocked first aid kit should be on hand, so you can deal with minor accidents and injuries at home. Here are some suggested items you can include:²⁰

2 absorbent compress dressings (12 x 23 cm)
25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
1 adhesive cloth tape (9 m x 2.5 cm)
1 antiseptic ointment for burns (i.e. BETADINE^® ointment)
1 bottle of antiseptic solution for cuts and abrasions (i.e. BETADINE^®solution)
2 packets of aspirin
1 blanket (space blanket)
1 breathing barrier with a one-way valve
1 instant cold compress
2 pairs of non-latex gloves
2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
Scissors
1 roller bandage (7.6 cm wide)
1 roller bandage (10 cm wide)
5 sterile gauze pads (7.6 x 7.6 cm)
5 sterile gauze pads (10 x 10 cm)
Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
2 triangular bandages
Tweezers
First aid instruction booklet

Try to separate everything into pouches to keep things organised in case of an emergency. Also, remember to regularly check the expiry dates on your products and replace when necessary. Keep a list of everything in your first aid kit to make it easier for restocking.²⁰

Why is the BETADINE^®Wound Care range a reddish/brown in colour?

The active ingredient in BETADINE^®, povidone-iodine , is naturally a dark/reddish brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you will be able to see see where it’s been applied on the skin.²⁰

If you accidentally get BETADINE^® on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, BETADINE^® can normally be washed off with the help of a stain remover.^12,33,34

CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.²⁰

How does the BETADINE^® Wound Care range prevent wound infections?

Unlike most antiseptics, the BETADINE^®Wound Care range uses a povidone-iodine solution to rapidly kill the bacteria, viruses and fungi that cause wound infections. BETADINE^® antiseptic is relatively free of irritation or stinging, making it easier to use on your kids, in comparison with other alcohol antiseptics.³⁶

Who should not use the BETADINE^® Wound Care range products?

People:

Those sensitive to povidone-iodine,
And, those with non-toxic nodular colloid goitre.

Application to large areas of broken skin should be avoided as excessive absorption of iodine may occur.^6,20,21,22

Why is using water to wash a wound insufficient to prevent wound infection?

Water only removes physical debris lodged in the flesh. An antiseptic such as a BETADINE^® Wound Care product (our BETADINE^® Antiseptic Ointment and BETADINE^® First Aid Cream) is used to kill surface germs and prevent infection.²⁰

Additionally, the use of tap water to cleanse the wound would not be recommended in a country where a constant supply of potable drinking water is not available.

Sore throats are more than bacterial infections!60

Rely on BETADINE® Mouthwash & Gargle with its powerful 3-way antiseptic action.

BETADINE® – Used worldwide in healthcare institutions and homes for over 55 years

Dealing with a sore throat? Here’s what you need to know

Follow these simple steps to bring smiles back!

Adults and children over the age of 33

Healthy healing starts with BETADINE®

Scalp Care

Wound Care

Intimate Care

What are bacteria and viruses?

Are antibiotics necessary for a sore throat?

Why is BETADINE® Mouthwash & Gargle better for our sore throats than salt water?8

What are the causes of a sore throat?

How is BETADINE® Mouthwash & Gargle different from most cosmetic mouthwash brands on the market?

Who should not use BETADINE® Mouthwash & Gargle as a care and preventative measure against throat and oral infections?

As BETADINE® has a dark/reddish brown colour, does it stain?

What is a sore throat?

What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

The important role of vaginal pH.

Do

Don’t

What is natural vaginal flora? 32

Why should you stop using your regular soap bar or shower gel for your intimate area wash?32

For little emergencies at home, what First Aid items should I keep on hand?

Why is the BETADINE®Wound Care range a reddish/brown in colour?

How does the BETADINE® Wound Care range prevent wound infections?

Who should not use the BETADINE® Wound Care range products?

Why is using water to wash a wound insufficient to prevent wound infection?

Sore throats are more than bacterial infections!⁶⁰

Rely on BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle with its powerful 3-way antiseptic action.

BETADINE^® – Used worldwide in healthcare institutions and homes for over 55 years

Adults and children over the age of 3³

Healthy healing starts with BETADINE^®

Why is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle better for our sore throats than salt water?⁸

How is BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle different from most cosmetic mouthwash brands on the market?

Who should not use BETADINE^® Mouthwash & Gargle as a care and preventative measure against throat and oral infections?

As BETADINE^® has a dark/reddish brown colour, does it stain?

What is natural vaginal flora? ³²

Why should you stop using your regular soap bar or shower gel for your intimate area wash?³²

Why is the BETADINE^®Wound Care range a reddish/brown in colour?

How does the BETADINE^® Wound Care range prevent wound infections?

Who should not use the BETADINE^® Wound Care range products?