15 Seconds to Safety: PVP-I's Virucidal Efficacy

The present study investigated various formulations of povidone-iodine, including skin cleanser, surgical scrub, and gargle/mouthwash, for their in vitro virucidal efficacy. 

The study assessed the reduction in virus titer, equivalent to a >/=4 log10 decrease (indicating a 99.99% inactivation), as an indicator of virucidal activity. Notably, this significant reduction was observed within 15 seconds of applying each undiluted PVP-I product, demonstrating efficacy under clean and dirty conditions.

The findings underscore the effectiveness of PVP-I in hand wash products designed for potentially contaminated skin and PVP-I gargle/mouthwash for reducing viral load in the oral cavity and oropharynx. 

This study suggests that incorporating PVP-I-based hygiene measures, like gargling, may be instrumental in preventing the transmission of respiratory viruses.

Reference-

Eggers M, Eickmann M, Zorn J. Rapid and Effective Virucidal Activity of PovidoneIodine Products Against Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara (MVA). Infect Dis Ther. 2015. DOI 10.1007/s40121-015-0091-9