Leveraging virucidal potential of an anti-microbial coating agent to mitigate fomite transmission of respiratory viruses

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory tract infections have emerged as a significant global threat, yet their impact on public health was previously underappreciated. This study investigated the antiviral efficacy of the nano-coating agent BARRIER90, composed of silicon-quaternary ammonium compound and a naturally derived biopolymer, against three distinct respiratory viruses: Influenza A (H1N1), Adenovirus Type 1, and Enterovirus-Coxsackie B1. BARRIER90 exhibited robust and sustained virucidal activity, persisting up to 90 days post-coating, against the enveloped virus, Influenza A, with significant reduction in viral plaques. Contrastingly, its efficacy against non-enveloped viruses revealed transient activity against Enterovirus-Coxsackie B1, with almost no antiviral activity observed against Adenovirus Type 1. These findings indicate the potential of antimicrobial coatings in mitigating viral transmission through contaminated surfaces (fomites), which harbour pathogenic viruses for longer periods. Antimicrobial coatings may facilitate infection control in various settings, including healthcare facilities and shared workspaces.