Disinfecting surfaces is essential for keeping bacteria and viruses at bay, but the effectiveness of cleaning solutions can be compromised when they come into contact with neutralizing compounds.
Ozonated water has been proven to have a powerful disinfection effect on mold, bacteria, and even SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. However, one major drawback is that ozonated water rapidly breaks down in the presence of organic matter, which diminishes its effectiveness.
Since SARS-CoV-2 is primarily transmitted through droplets containing bodily fluids like saliva and nasal mucus, both of which contain organic matter, it is crucial to understand how ozonated water performs in the presence of such compounds.
In a collaborative effort with Panasonic Corporation, Associate Professor Mayo Yasugi from the Graduate School of Veterinary Science at Osaka Metropolitan University led a research team to investigate the impact of human salivary organic components—amylase, mucin, and urea—on the effectiveness of ozonated water against SARS-CoV-2.
Their research, published in the Journal of Hospital Infection, revealed that amylase and mucin degraded ozone as their concentrations increased, thereby reducing the disinfection ability of ozonated water. On the other hand, urea did not have the same effect. Moreover, the study found that the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 decreased as the concentrations of amylase and mucin rose, further compromising the disinfection properties of ozonated water.
Professor Yasugi stated, “This report is the first in the world to evaluate the extent to which organic matter in saliva weakens the disinfection effect of ozonated water on SARS-CoV-2, and it is expected to provide the basis for applying ozonated water in real-world settings.”
For more information, the research paper titled “Disinfection effect of ozonated water on SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of salivary proteins” can be accessed in the Journal of Hospital Infection.
This groundbreaking study sheds light on the interaction between organic matter and ozonated water, offering valuable insights for the practical application of ozonated water in combating viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The findings could potentially revolutionize disinfection strategies in various settings to enhance public health and safety.
