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High-Resolution 3D Imaging of Rabies Virus Infection in Solvent-Cleared Brain Tissue
Published on: April 30, 2019
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Inactivation of rabies virus
Guanghui Wu1, David Selden1, Anthony R Fooks2
1Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, United Kingdom.
Journal of Virological Methods
|February 9, 2017
Summary
Effective inactivation of rabies virus was achieved using Virkon S, 70% isopropyl alcohol, and paraformaldehyde. Demonstrating the safety of inactivated virus preparations is crucial before removal from containment.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biosafety
Background:
- Rabies virus is a significant public health concern requiring stringent biosafety measures.
- Handling and inactivation protocols for rabies virus are critical for laboratory safety and preventing transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of various chemical and physical agents for rabies virus inactivation.
- To determine optimal conditions for effective rabies virus decontamination in a laboratory setting.
Main Methods:
- Testing Virkon S (1%) and 70% isopropyl alcohol for rapid viral reduction.
- Assessing the effectiveness of 70% ethanol and paraformaldehyde fixation for cell culture inactivation.
- Quantifying viral reduction using log reductions and plaque assays.
Main Results:
- Virkon S (1%) achieved >4log reduction of rabies virus in culture medium within 1 minute.
- 70% isopropyl alcohol demonstrated >3log reduction within 20 seconds for surface decontamination.
- Paraformaldehyde (3-4%) effectively inactivated rabies virus in cell cultures within 30 minutes, while 70% ethanol was ineffective.
Conclusions:
- Virkon S and 70% isopropyl alcohol are effective agents for rapid rabies virus inactivation.
- Paraformaldehyde is suitable for inactivating rabies virus in cell cultures.
- Confirmation of viral inactivation is mandatory before removing samples from high-containment facilities.

