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Tonometer disinfection and viruses.

J Nagington, G M Sutehall, P Whipp

The British Journal of Ophthalmology

|October 1, 1983

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Current tonometer disinfectants fail against viruses, risking infection spread. Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) effectively inactivates common viruses like herpes simplex and adenoviruses, offering a safer alternative for ophthalmic instruments.

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Infectious Disease Control
Microbiology

Background:

Tonometer disinfectants are crucial for preventing cross-contamination in eye care.
Existing disinfectants demonstrate limited efficacy against viral pathogens.
This poses a significant risk for infection transmission between patients during tonometry.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate sodium hypochlorite as a disinfectant for tonometers.
To determine its virucidal activity against relevant ophthalmic viruses.
To assess its clinical applicability and safety for routine use.

Main Methods:

Sodium hypochlorite solution was selected for its availability and broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties.
Virucidal efficacy was tested against herpes simplex virus, adenovirus type 8, and enterovirus 70.

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A simple disinfection technique was developed and implemented in clinical practice for one year.

Main Results:

Sodium hypochlorite at 500 parts per million (p.p.m.) effectively inactivated herpes simplex, adenovirus 8, and enterovirus 70 within 10 minutes.
The developed disinfection technique was found to be clinically acceptable.
The method has been successfully used daily for one year without adverse events.

Conclusions:

Sodium hypochlorite is a potent and effective virucidal agent for tonometer disinfection.
It presents a viable and safer alternative to current disinfectants, reducing the risk of viral transmission.
The described clinical technique ensures practical and safe implementation in ophthalmic settings.