Disinfection Methods and Survival of SARS-CoV-2 in the Environment and Contaminated Materials: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in sewage and water resources has been used as an indication for the possible occurrence of the virus among communities and for its potential of transmission among humans through the surrounding environment or water resources. In order to reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, contaminated surfaces should be disinfected frequently by using an effective disinfectant. The present review discusses a bibliometric analysis of the global SARS-CoV-2 research and focuses mainly on reviewing the efficiency of the most traditional disinfection technologies. The disinfection methods reviewed include those for hospitals’ or medical facilities’ wastewater, contaminated surfaces, and contaminated masks. The elimination of the virus based on the concept of sterility assurance level (SAL) is also discussed. In addition, the chemical disinfectants that are currently used, as well as their temporary efficiency, are also reviewed. The different technologies that are globally used for disinfection processes during the COVID-19 pandemic are shown. However, more advanced technologies, such as nanotechnology, might have more potential for higher inactivation effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2.

SARS-CoV-2 in a stream running through an underprivileged, underserved, urban settlement in São Paulo, Brazil: A 7-month follow-up

“…Likewise, Usman et al (2020) brought the issue of the potential of the aerosols generated by contaminated waters could potentially be a route of transmission of the virus if present. The same was discussed by Al-Gheethi et al (2020) whose literature review reveals that larger droplets can travel through aerosols at a short distance and, settle down very quickly on surfaces.…”

Potential Mucosal Irritation Discrimination of Surface Disinfectants Employed against SARS-CoV-2 by Limacus flavus Slug Mucosal Irritation Assay

“…The main SARS-CoV-2 routes of transmission are interhuman airborne and contact with contaminated surfaces. Thus, healthcare and community prevention measures include regular use of surface disinfectants and hand sanitizers [ 47 , 48 , 49 ].…”

The role of disinfectants and sanitizers during COVID-19 pandemic: advantages and deleterious effects on humans and the environment

“… Kumar et al 2020 ; Lingayya et al 2020 Quaternary ammonium compounds Non-living surfaces 200 ppm or more Food and non-food surfaces (≥200 ppm) Quite effective virucidal, can be used in combination, low human toxicity, skin and material tolerability, no odor, not applied on living surfaces, do not damage clothing and carpets unlike oxidizing agents. Ineffective in presence of organic matter on surfaces, irritation, toxicity, environmental side effects Kumar et al 2020 ; Lingayya et al 2020 UV radiation Non-living things, air 200–280 nm Fomites, air Effective virucidal action, does not affect textile or fabric quality, nonpolluting, radiation hazards Can damage human eyes and prolonged exposure can cause burns and skin cancer Al-Gheethi et al 2020 ; FDA 2020b ; Kumar et al 2020 Sodium hypochlorite Non-living surfaces 100–200 ppm Fomites Effective for disinfecting surfaces, cheap and convenient. Toxic, irritating, and chlorine gas formation.…”