Scientists and researchers are working around the clock to develop a vaccination for the coronavirus.

While progress has been slow on that, there's been an interesting discovery when it comes to the virus.

Specifically, scientists have found that a chemical used in insect repellent can kill the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

Unlikely killer of the coronavirus

AFP-Relaxnews reported that the discovery was made by scientists at the Britain’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) via a preliminary study.

They found that Citriodiol, the active ingredient in repellents such as Mosi-guard, had anti-viral properties if mixed with the virus in the liquid phase and on a test surface.

“Mixing a virus suspension with Mosi-guard spray or selected constituent components resulted in a reduction in SARS-CoV-2.

"At a high concentration, Mosi-guard gave a significant decrease... resulting in no recoverable virus,” said the study.

According to the report, Citriodiol is made from oil in the leaves and twigs of the eucalyptus citriodora tree, generally found in Asia, South America and Africa.

However, before we start stocking up on insect repellents, the country's Ministry of Defence said that the study still needs to be developed further by other organisations.

Hey, at least it's good to know that even if the insect repellent we have at home doesn't affect mosquitoes or cockroaches, at least it can kill the coronavirus.