COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was first declared a pandemic on March 11, 2020. This virus posed a significant threat, instilling fear across all age groups. The pandemic had drastic health impacts globally, prompting governments to implement measures such as lockdowns, social distancing, masks, and vaccination regimes to curb its spread. While these measures have significantly reduced the spread of the virus, COVID-19 remains a persistent threat. It is crucial to continue taking precautionary measures to prevent its spread and protect public and individual health. One effective way to prevent the spread of this virus is through the use of certified antiviral disinfectants and hand sanitizers in high-risk areas to maintain high hygiene levels. However, these products must be tested for their efficacy. Antiviral testing for disinfectants plays an important role in determining the efficacy of these products against harmful viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Current COVID-19 situation
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently reported that COVID-19 continues to cause approximately 1700 deaths per week globally. The rise in cases was attributed to the decreasing vaccine coverage among high-risk groups including healthcare workers, immunocompromised individuals, and people aged above 60. WHO recommends that individuals in at-risk groups receive a COVID-19 vaccine within 12 months of their last dose to help reduce infection rates.
Preventing the further spread of the virus
Although not as fatal as during the peak of the pandemic, the SARS-CoV-2 virus still retains the potential to infect a large number of people. Hence, it is important to implement effective disinfection protocols in high-risk areas such as hospitals and public spaces. Public health administrators must enforce the use of certified disinfectant products in such high-risk areas to ensure effective disinfection.
The role of efficacy testing of disinfectants
Disinfectants used in hospitals and other public areas must be tested for their efficacy. Antiviral testing for disinfectants involves determining the effectiveness of disinfectants in eliminating or reducing the number of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses from contaminated surfaces. Regulatory organizations such as the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) and the European Union (EU) offer standard guidelines for determining disinfectant efficacy.
In light of increasing COVID-19 cases, disinfectants which can effectively reduce viral loads from contaminated surfaces must be used to maintain hygiene and cleanliness. Standards such as EN 14476, EN 14675, and EN 16777 provide standard protocols to perform antiviral testing for disinfectants. Manufacturers must ensure their products are compliant with regulatory standards before marketing them.
Healthcare professionals and public health officers should incorporate the use of certified disinfectants into their hygiene protocols. Ensuring the use of certified products according to manufacturers’ instructions is crucial for effective disinfection.
How can MIS help?
Microbe Investigations Switzerland provides antiviral testing for disinfectants to ensure that your disinfectant products are capable of effectively reducing viral load. Some of the most relevant and commonly followed test protocols include:
EN 14476 – Quantitative suspension test ( (phase 2 step 1) for determining the virucidal activity of disinfectants or antiseptics used in medical areas
EN 14675 – Quantitative suspension test ( (phase 2 step 1) for assessing the virucidal activity of disinfectant or antiseptics used in veterinary areas
EN 16777 – Quantitative (phase 2 step 2 suspension) test for evaluating the virucidal activity of disinfectant used in the medical area
EN 17111 – Quantitative (phase 2 step 2 suspension) test for virucidal activity of medical instrument disinfectants
EN 17122 – Quantitative (phase 2 step 2 suspension) test for virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants or antiseptics used in veterinary areas
ASTM E1053 – Assessing virucidal activity of chemicals used for disinfection of inanimate, non-porous environmental surfaces
ASTM E1838 – Evaluating virus eliminating efficacy of hygienic handwash and hand rub agent
To learn more about our COVID-19 testing services or to schedule a consultation, please contact our specialists today.
