WWI antiseptic could fight common cold - and tackle superbugs

By Bridie Smith, Science Editor
Updated December 11 2016 - 12:14pm, first published November 28 2016 - 12:15am
Dr Genevieve Pepin with acriflavine antiseptic powder. Photo: Penny Stephens
Dr Genevieve Pepin with acriflavine antiseptic powder. Photo: Penny Stephens
Medical staff apply a dressing to the leg of a wounded World War I French soldier at a mobile hospital south-west of Amiens. Photo: Australian War Memorial
Medical staff apply a dressing to the leg of a wounded World War I French soldier at a mobile hospital south-west of Amiens. Photo: Australian War Memorial
A World War II medical kit, including a bottle of acriflavine near the front left corner of the case. Photo: Australian War Memorial
A World War II medical kit, including a bottle of acriflavine near the front left corner of the case. Photo: Australian War Memorial

A century-old antiseptic made from coal tar and used to treat wounds and sleeping sickness in World War I Australian soldiers has been found to help the body fight off viral infections, including the common cold.