First published scientific data confirms that leading hygiene products are >99.9% effective against SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19)

American Journal of Infection Control abstract supports scientific understanding and confirms actives in Dettol and Lysol are effective in breaking the chain of infection of COVID-19

London, 27th May 2020 - A new study designed to increase the understanding of methods to combat the spread of COVID-19 has confirmed that active ingredients in many of the leading hygiene brands are >99.9% effective against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The findings were published in The American Journal of Infection Control (AJIC).

The study is the first published evaluation of the viricidal efficacy of personal care and surface cleaning and disinfection products against SARS-CoV-2 using internationally established standards1 The laboratory tests examined active ingredients1 in well-known and widely-used brands (Dettol and Lysol) antiseptic liquid, hand sanitiser, hand wash, disinfectant spray, personal care and surface wipes, bar soap, surface cleanser and laundry sanitiser. The study found all microbicidal actives to be effective at inactivating SARS-CoV-2, demonstrating a reduction of infectious virus within the tested 1 to 5 minutes.

The researchers highlighted that the findings are significant given the practical importance of microbicides having efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 in the home, community, and healthcare settings.

Dr Charlesworth continued, “This is a positive development and is fully consistent with our expectations. We will continue to develop scientific evidence to support our product portfolio to enable effective, science-led communication around hygiene.”

This study is what is believed to be the most comprehensive evaluation to date, covering all active ingredients across the majority of the portfolio and product formulations. Where required, we have submitted this data to regulatory authorities for their review and approval.

These studies form part of a wider commitment by RB, a leader in hygiene, to contribute to scientific knowledge around hygiene and COVID-19 and to ensure that all of its communication with stakeholders is evidence-based. Other initiatives include working closely with leading scientific experts and academic institutions in the field of hygiene and infection control to educate the public on the importance of hygiene, as well as supporting frontline healthcare workers. 

References

1. Microbicidal Actives with Virucidal Efficacy against SARS-CoV-2: M Khalid Ijaz et al. AJIC, American Journal of Infection Control (2020), doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajic.2020.05.015 

For further information, please contact:

Patty O’Hayer: +44 (0)7825 755688

James Fearnley-Marr: +44 (0)7408 963679