isopropyl alcohol disinfectant effective against new coronavirus?

In the context of the global outbreak of the new crown, the effectiveness of disinfection products has become a topic of widespread concern. Because of its strong bactericidal effect and convenient use, isopropyl alcohol disinfectant has become the first choice for daily cleaning and disinfection in many families and public places. Many people still have questions about whether isopropanol disinfectants are effective against the new coronavirus. This article will analyze in detail the mechanism of action of isopropanol disinfectant and its effect in the prevention and control of new coronavirus.

Sterilization Principle of Isopropyl Alcohol Disinfectant

We need to understand the basic working principle of isopropyl alcohol disinfectant. Isopropanol (C3H8O), usually used at a concentration of 70%, is a common alcohol disinfectant. It can effectively inhibit the reproduction of the virus by dissolving the lipid membrane of the outer layer of bacteria and viruses, so that the protein and nucleic acid structure of the virus is destroyed. 70% isopropyl alcohol is more permeable during sterilization, better able to disrupt the structure of pathogens, and more effective than higher concentrations of isopropyl alcohol (e. g., 90% or more).

isopropyl alcohol disinfectant on new coronavirus

The new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is an enveloped virus whose outer membrane contains a lipid component, which makes the virus more vulnerable to the external environment. According to a number of studies, 70% of isopropanol disinfectants are effective in destroying the lipid shell of the new coronavirus, thereby inhibiting its replication and spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) both recommend the use of disinfectants containing 70% isopropanol as an effective means of combating the new coronavirus.

Use of isopropyl alcohol disinfectant precautions

Although isopropyl alcohol disinfectants are effective against new coronavirus, the following points should be noted during use. When disinfecting, ensure that the surface is completely covered with isopropyl alcohol and maintain sufficient contact time (usually at least 20 seconds) to ensure that the virus is completely killed. Isopropyl alcohol disinfectant should avoid contact with sensitive parts such as eyes and mouth, and avoid prolonged contact with skin to avoid irritation or excessive dryness.

Isopropyl Alcohol Disinfectant Limitations

Although 70% isopropyl alcohol has a good killing effect on the new coronavirus, it is not a universal disinfectant. For some surface types, such as greasy or heavily soiled surfaces, the use of isopropyl alcohol alone may not achieve the desired disinfection effect. Therefore, in this case, it is recommended to clean first, and then use disinfectant for thorough disinfection. Isopropanol is less effective against some non-enveloped viruses and is therefore not a complete substitute for other disinfection methods.

Conclusion: Is isopropyl alcohol disinfectant effective against COVID-19?

On the whole, isopropyl alcohol disinfectants can produce significant killing effects on new coronavirus at effective concentrations (e. g. 70%). It inhibits the replication of the virus by destroying the lipid outer membrane of the virus, thus effectively preventing the spread of the new coronavirus. In order to achieve the best results, users need to ensure that the disinfectant is used correctly and combined with other cleaning methods. Isopropyl alcohol disinfectants are an important means of preventing and controlling the spread of the new coronavirus, but they are not the only option. In practice, a combination of good hygiene and a variety of disinfection methods will be more effective in protecting us from the threat of the new coronavirus.