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Best Disinfectants for COVID-19 A Systematic Review on Surface and Skin Sanitizers

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by

Vishnu
in

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has propelled hygiene science into the global spotlight. With SARS-CoV-2’s high transmissibility and persistence on surfaces, disinfectants have become critical tools in public health. A new systematic review offers insightful comparisons of skin and surface disinfectants, presenting evidence-based guidance on the most effective formulations.
Visit https://www.clinvirologyjournal.com/ for more groundbreaking research in clinical virology.

Key Findings on Hand Sanitizers

This systematic review analyzed over 34 studies to evaluate the virucidal activity of various hand sanitizers against SARS-CoV-2 and similar viruses:

  • 85% Ethanol: Found to be one of the most effective formulations, showing a 5.5 log₁₀ reduction of SARS-CoV in 30 seconds. It’s also endorsed by the WHO for pandemic scenarios.
  • Ethanol Combinations:
    • Ethanol (78%) + Povidone-Iodine (3.2%) → Strong virucidal action against enveloped viruses.
    • Ethanol + Citric Acid + Urea → Broad-spectrum efficiency even at lower exposure times.
  • Povidone-Iodine (PVP-I) 7.5%: Demonstrated excellent results against enveloped viruses within just 15 seconds.
  • Chlorhexidine: Effective primarily against bacteria but limited against viruses.
  • Soaps and Surgical Scrubs: Particularly those containing potassium oleate and sodium laureth sulfate showed significant viral load reduction by disrupting lipid membranes.

Efficacy of Surface Disinfectants

Surface contamination is a major transmission vector. This review highlights the top-performing surface disinfectants:

  • 0.5% Sodium Hypochlorite: Highly effective against murine hepatitis virus (SARS surrogate), with virucidal action in under 30 seconds.
  • Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide (0.5%): Rapid action within 1 minute, useful in automatic disinfectant tunnel systems.
  • Phenolic Solutions (0.5%–2%): Effective against a broad spectrum, including HIV and HBV, particularly when visible organic matter is minimal.
  • Glutaraldehyde + QAC + Isopropanol Mix: Superior performance with >3 log₁₀ reduction in viral titers for both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses.

Broader Implications for Public Hygiene

The implications of this review reach beyond hospitals. The American Food Safety Authority and the FDA emphasize the need for:

  • High-temperature laundry cycles (≥71°C) or cold washes with bleach for clothing sanitation.
  • UV-C light disinfection in healthcare and public facilities like gyms and elevators.
  • Regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces, such as elevator buttons and gym equipment, with appropriate virucidal agents.

A detailed analysis can be found in our main journal article journal.ijcv.1001035.

Practical Applications for Everyday Settings

  • Hand hygiene remains the first line of defense: 85% ethanol or PVP-I scrub recommended.
  • Food and Kitchen Safety: Avoid soap on produceuse running water and clean utensils.
  • Public Area Sanitization: Use diluted bleach (1:99) for lift buttons, gyms, and shared areas.
  • Mask and PPE Disinfection: Employ UV or hydrogen peroxide vapor treatments as per updated health protocols.

Explore Related Research

For more on COVID-19 virology insights, visit https://www.clinvirologyjournal.com/.

Call-to-Action

Explore more studies at https://www.clinvirologyjournal.com/ and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This content is generated using AI assistance and should be reviewed for accuracy and compliance before considering this article and its contents as a reference. Any mishaps or grievances raised due to the reusing of this material will not be handled by the author of this article.

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