Combating SARS-CoV-2: leveraging microbicidal experiences with other emerging/re-emerging viruses

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Emerging zoonotic viruses, exemplified by SARS-CoV-2, present significant public health and economic challenges.
• Limited initial data often exists on transmission routes, infectivity, and environmental survival of novel viruses.
• The efficacy of standard infection control measures against new viral threats may be uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and propose effective infection prevention and control (IPAC) strategies for SARS-CoV-2 and similar emerging viruses.
• To highlight the utility of pre-existing knowledge on enveloped viruses for guiding IPAC measures.
• To address the information gaps concerning novel virus dissemination and survival.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing data on microbicidal and hygiene effectiveness.
• Analysis of information on enveloped viruses, including related and unrelated types.
• Synthesis of findings to inform IPAC recommendations for emerging viral threats.

Main Results:

• Pre-existing data on microbicidal and hygiene effectiveness against enveloped viruses can inform IPAC strategies.
• Established knowledge provides a foundation for managing novel viral outbreaks.
• This approach allows for rapid deployment of control measures despite initial information scarcity.

Conclusions:

• Infection prevention and control for SARS-CoV-2 and future emerging viruses can be guided by existing data on enveloped viruses.
• Leveraging prior knowledge accelerates the development of effective public health interventions.
• A proactive approach based on established virological principles is crucial for pandemic preparedness.