Photodynamic inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 on inanimate surfaces

Abstract

Abstract Since coronaviruses can remain infectious on different inanimate surfaces for several hours or even days, the possibility of indirect fomite transmission through infected objects and surfaces cannot be ruled out. We describe a method for the photodynamic disinfection of inanimate surfaces infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, Omicron variant strain. Application of only 5 µM photosensitizer octakis(cholinyl)zinc phthalocyanine followed immediately by 7 min irradiation with light emitting diode (LED) light 692 nm (12.5 mW cm−2) results in complete inactivation of the virus on polystyrene and glass surfaces, while 10 min irradiation lead to complete eradication of the virus also on Al-foil and medical mask fabric. A photodynamic technique is being considered to combat the spread of coronaviruses.