Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

April 6, 2020

Rapid evidence summary on SARS-CoV-2 survivorship and disinfection, and a reusable PPE protocol using a double-hit process.

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  • Based on a review of existing evidence on SARS-CoV-2 survivorship and methods to disinfect PPE, in particular N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFR), the authors propose a two-step disinfection process using initial storage of PP for ≥4 days, followed by ultraviolet light for N95 FFRs and face shields, dry heat treatment for gowns and chemical disinfection for eyewear. 
  • This method could be rapidly implemented in healthcare settings, increasing the frontline supply of PPE and avoiding issues of supply chain disruption. In the long term, it could improve the environmental footprint of healthcare facilities by allowing for long-term reuse of PPE. 

Derraik (Apr 6, 2020). Rapid evidence summary on SARS-CoV-2 survivorship and disinfection, and a reusable PPE protocol using a double-hit process. Pre-print downloaded Apr 6 from https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.04.02.20051524