Decontamination of Common Healthcare Facility Surfaces Contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 using Peracetic Acid Dry Fogging

Cutts, Todd; Kasloff, Samantha; Safronetz, David; Krishnan, Jay

Background The SARS-Cov-2 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for safe and effective surface decontamination methods, particularly in healthcare settings. Methods The effectiveness of peracetic acid (PAA) dry fogging in decontaminating common healthcare setting surfaces was evaluated after experimentally contaminating nine surfaces (stainless steel, latex painted wood, unsealed hardwood, melamine countertop, vinyl flooring, clear plastic, faux leather, computer keyboard button and smartphone touch screen) with more than 106 TCID50 of SARS-CoV-2. Results When fumigated with PAA dry fog for an hour, no infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus was recovered from experimentally inoculated coupons of representing nine different surface types. In contrast, high titer recovery of infectious virus was demonstrated for corresponding untreated drying controls of the same materials. Conclusion Standard surface decontaminating processes, including sprays and wipes, are laborious and often cannot completely decontaminate sensitive electronic equipment. The ease of use, low cost and overall effectiveness of a PAA dry fogging suggest it should be considered for decontaminating settings, particularly intensive care units where severely ill SARS-CoV-2 patients are cared for.