Influence of several chemical reagents on lymphocytic choriomeningitis and Tacaribe viruses

The sensitivity of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and Tacaribe virus to several chemical reagents was investigated. The viruses were sensitive to lipid solvents (ether, chloroform) and to detergents (sodium desoxycholate and Triton X-100); they were rapidly inactivated by formalin, beta-propiolactone, hydrogen peroxide and chloramine B. The results obtained contribute to a more complete characterization of the biological features of the arenavirus group and may be useful for scientific research and manufacturing of viral preparations.