Zinc has the ability to inhibit viral replication. Think covid-19, influenza.
Yes, but only when zinc passes through the cell membrane and enters the cell.
Fortunately, zinc require a zinc ionophore to do this, so regular zinc supplemental use would not enter the cells unless one takes an ionophore like quercetin or hydroxychloroquine along with the zinc.
-PJ
That is one reason I started taking Zinc, along with Vitamin D, C, and I have full prescription of Ivermectin I can fall back on if necessary.