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Antimycobacterial activity of 'Virkon'
S J Broadley1, J R Furr, P A Jenkins
1Welsh School of Pharmacy, University of Wales College of Cardiff.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Virkon disinfectant did not effectively kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium-intracellulare in laboratory tests. Higher concentrations and longer exposure times did not yield satisfactory disinfection results against these specific mycobacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Disinfection and Sterilization
Background:
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium-intracellulare are significant human pathogens.
- Effective disinfection is crucial for controlling the spread of mycobacterial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Virkon, a peroxygen-based disinfectant, against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium-intracellulare.
- To determine the effectiveness of Virkon at various concentrations and exposure times.
Main Methods:
- Standard plate method and Bactec 460 radiometric system were employed for testing.
- Virkon concentrations ranged from 2% to 4% with exposure times from 30 to 120 minutes.
Main Results:
- Virkon did not achieve a satisfactory kill of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium-intracellulare strains.
- Efficacy was not improved with longer exposure times (60-120 min) or tested concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Virkon, at the tested concentrations and conditions, is not a satisfactory disinfectant for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium-intracellulare.
- Further research may be needed to identify effective disinfection strategies for these mycobacteria.