MSR ViralStop Water Treatment

Despite its cool, clear refreshing look, most water available in the backwoods today is not safe to drink unless treated. Various chemicals, bacteria, viruses and plain old mud can turn a simple thirst quencher into gut wrenching time a few days later as the bugs make their way thru you. Boiling water kills bacteria and viruses, but doesn’t get rid of sediments or chemicals, and is inconvenient when on the trail. Filters remove most bacteria and sediments, but not all viruses. Iodine and chlorine have their own pros and cons too when used as standalone treatments.

I’ve never gotten sick drinking water that was only filtered, and not further treated, but I always felt the additional few seconds it took to add a few drops of chlorine were worth it when I had it with me – if for nothing else, peace of mind. For maximum protection – note that nothing is perfect - we suggest using a filter, and then add a few drops of this ViralStop to your drinking water to protect against nasties that might get thru the filter. ViralStop is a chlorine-based purifier solution that provides simple and fast virus protection - just add 5 drops to each liter of filtered water, shake up for at least 10 seconds, and wait 5 minutes. Comes in a spill-proof dispenser bottle for accurate measuring. This is a purchase-only item. Comes in a 2-ounce bottle, which is enough to treat about 80 gallons. To lighten your load a tad, transfer enough to handle all your water needs for your planned trip into a clean plastic dropper bottle and leave the rest at home. For more information, see our tips on hydration and water treatment.