Antiviral compositions, especially those useful when applied topically, particularly to mucosal tissues (i.e., mucous membranes), including, in particular, an antiviral lipid component, such as a fatty acid ester, fatty ether, or alkoxide derivative thereof, and an organoleptic neutralizing agent. Such compositions provide effective topical antimicrobial activity and are accordingly useful in the treatment and/or prevention of conditions that are caused, or aggravated by, microorganisms (including viruses).