Over-the-counter nasal sprays may keep coughs, colds and flu at bay, trial shows

People using nasal sprays were less likely to be prescribed antibiotics compared to those receiving the usual standard care (Yui Mok/PA)

Using nasal sprays at the first sign of a sore throat, cough, cold or flu could stop full-blown symptoms from developing and help speed up recovery, according to the largest trial of its kind.

Data from nearly 14,000 adults has shown over-the-counter gel and saline sprays cut the number of days spent feeling ill with sinus and chest infections, flu and cold by around 20%.