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Breaking transmission of SARS-CoV-2: the effective use of biocide

Adrian Gee-Turner discusses the survival of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus on surfaces, the risk in transmission of this latest agent of disease, and also importantly the efficacy of hypochlorous acid in killing the virus.

As the coronavirus pandemic progressed, our understanding of the virus that causes COVID-19 disease grew, and this has influenced the guidance on transmission prevention measures such as face masks, social distancing, hand washing and disinfection. While a few grey areas persist, such as the degree of challenge presented by aerosolised virus, a number of conclusions are emerging.

                Fomite transmission (from objects and surfaces) is highly likely given the extended periods (days) that SARS-CoV-2 is able to remain viable on various surfaces, including glass and plastic. This is important because people generally touch mobile phones and keyboards many times per day – so, as well as hand washing, touch points will need frequent disinfection with an antiviral disinfectant.

           It appears that the viability of SARS-CoV-2 is significantly reduced by sunlight or high temperatures. This conclusion would appear to be borne out by the outbreaks that have occurred in chilled food packing facilities. SARS-CoV-2 can remain infectious as an aerosol for at least several hours. This is important because pathogens predominate in small particles (<5 μm), which do not settle in the same way as larger particles.

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Upcoming Events

USCAP 113th Annual Meeting

Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
23-28 March, 2024

Pathology Horizons 2024

MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath
18-20 April, 2024

Diagnostics North East Conference 2024

The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
19 April, 2024

ECCMID 2024 - European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Fira Gran Via, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
27-30 April 2024

British Society for Microbial Technology Annual Microbiology Conference

UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, London
2 May 2024

EQA Reports: Interpreting Key Information & Troubleshooting Tips

ONLINE - Zoom
Thursday 16th May 2024

Access the latest issue of Pathology In Practice on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Pathology In Practice app from your device's App store

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