Virucide FAQ’s
Is Virucide effective against Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis)?
It is not possible to specify efficacy data statistics for every known micro-organism. Based on locally sourced data and independent international research, QAC and twin-chain QAC (quaternary ammonium compounds), are effective against Mycoplasma bovis, when used as per instructions, on clean hard surfaces. Further information relating to efficacy can be provided on request.
Is Virucide effective against Coccidiosis?
No, however, a 10% Ammonia solution has been shown in International studies as effective. Unfortunately, Ammonia at this level creates significant environmental hazards. However by surrogate, the use of Chlorine Dioxide has also been indicated as effective.
See also:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/coccidiosis-in-cats
http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/coccidiosis-in-dogs.html
http://www.bobmckee.com/Client%20Info/Parasites/Coccidiosis.html
Does it stain?
It is very unlikely in diluted form to stain hard surfaces, floors, bench tops, vinyl etc.
What is with the HUGE CORROSIVE sticker on it? Is it dangerous?
In NZ, labelling operates under EPA Administered HSNO Legislation. The level of disinfectant in Virucide means the product falls into a DG Class 8 for tranport. In terms of other toxic and deadly products that also fall into a Class 8 category, Virucide would be at the very low end of toxicity within the DG Classification. Many other products in the market should also be labelled in this way but are not, and are not compliant. WorksafeNZ now police HSNO legislation and there are heavy and in some cases personal penalties possible for operators choosing to have non-compliant labelling, Safety Data Sheets and applicator bottle kits. See separate document on this for further details.
Is Virucide effective against Leptospirosis?
There is no specific data available at this point for Lepto, though the bacteria are readily killed by disinfectants. There are a huge number of known pathogens to which by association common and specialist disinfectants are effective. Leptosporidium is usually transferred to humans when exposed to the bacteria (often from water contaminated with animal urine) as part of usual work, (usually with animals) in particular where cleanliness standards or due-care with cuts and grazes is not at a decent standard. Low lying slow water ways where many are swimming in possibly or probably contaminated water would possibly show higher infection rates simply through increased exposure.
See also;
leptospirosis.org
disinfect-yard-leptospirosis
michigan.gov
Is this used in the human health market (hospitals)?
At the time of writing, Viruside is used extensively, though under a separate brand, by one of our high-end contract commercial cleaning operators – using it through medical facilities, some private hospitals, MPI approved plants, and high-end office environments.
How stable is it once it is made up please?
At least 12 months. Some fading of dye will be common, especially left this long and/or in direct/partial UV (sun) exposure.
Does the 10 min contact time before animals being re-introduced to treated areas relate to the severe toxicity of the product and paws being burned?
The contact time relates to the researched results. 10 minutes is the ideal minimum time for the product to meet its stated efficacy standards. In diluted state the product is effective on microbes, but is considered low-toxicity for plants and animals. Even if incidental diluted product exposure occurs, this exposure should not cause any harm to humans or plants and animals.
How about Bovine Coronavirus?
Yes, recently updated for FIV as “Surrogate” (Part of the “family”).
How about Bovine Rotavirus?
Yes. Rotaviruses are the most common cause of neonatal diarrhoea in calves, and in humans. Generic name applies, but when specific to an animal, often their class will prefix “rotavirus”. Rotovirus is a non-enveloped RNA Virus. Research continues at this point regarding the aspects specific to symptoms in infected calves which include re-infection after a first episode, possibly disputing the pathology on whether they are a specific species or not. Currently the family is referred to as “rotoviruses” generically.
Is it effective against Tricophyton (Ringworm)?
Ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm, bacteria or virus. Ringworm is a generic name given to the resulting skin condition from fungus infections, caused by a number of different fungus species. Dermatophytes of the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum are the most common causative agents. Trichophyton mentagrophytes (Athlete’s foot fungus) is listed on the Product Information sheets as being killed by Virucide, so yes, Virucide will be effective against Ringworm.
Is it biodegradable?
Virucide consist of quaternary amines and an amine oxide. One quaternary amine is rapidly biodegradable in aerobic conditions as shown on the NZ EPA CCID database. The other quaternary amine is chemically the same as another material that is recorded on the CCID as rapidly biodegradable.
Is it effective against Feline Herpes Virus?
Virucide is effective against Herpes Simplex Virus (Types 1 and 2). Feline Herpes Virus is also known as feline viral rhinopneumonitis (FVR), rhinotracheitis virus and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1), and is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats; see aspca.org. It is interesting to note that product testing can’t hope to cover all bacteria and viruses, but researchers lean on “surrogacy” as a way of making a reasonable assumption that a virus from the same species (genre) will also be killed if one from the group is shown to be effectively killed under test/lab conditions. Head virologists at MPI Wellington have also added that the delicacy of viruses outside of a transmittable medium (body) leads quickly to being in a significantly weakened state, further assisting the surrogacy reasoning. Herpes, on a similar basis is covered (surrogacy) under Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis.
How about Cryptosporidium?
Cryptosporidium Sp (similar to Giardia) – Parasite and associated Cyst/s offers resistance to disinfectants, even to strong oxidising solutions such as chlorine (sodium hypochlorite). Hydrogen Peroxide (in quite a few studies) has really been the only definitive disinfectant on the Cysts.
Is it effective against Feline Calici Virus?
The caliciviruses have a simple construction and are not enveloped. By association to other more robust virus types, caliciviruses could be classified as effectively being treated with Virucide. Sometimes they are excluded from specific virus testing, though not specific claims are made here.
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Viruclear FAQ’s
How much of Viruclear do I use?
Use enough that a surface stays visibly wet for at least a minute but the longer the better. The key with any sanitiser is concentration and contact time. Hydrogen peroxide will work in as little as 30 seconds against coronaviruses. If you are going to rinse the product off we recommend allowing at least 60 seconds to 5 minutes of surface contact. If you are not rinsing, spray enough that the surface will stay wet for at least 60 seconds before air drying occurs.
How stable is the product once we mix it up?
Hydrogen peroxide is a product that breaks down rapidly in situations of warm temperatures and direct sunlight. Viruclear is a stabilised product but we recommend storing it in a cool dark place. Only mix up enough RTU (Ready To Use) product for 1 days use. At the end of the sanitising session discard what hasn’t been used if it is not going to be used that day. Mix up a fresh batch of RTU product at the start of the next day.
Do we need to rinse surfaces afterwards?
In most situations rinsing the surface is not required. However, if it is a food contact surface and you can easily rinse the surface, then you can do so. For things such as children’s toys they should be sprayed thoroughly with the RTU product and then left for 5-10 minutes, followed with a quick rinse with a hose or run them under the tap. Viruclear can be used as no rinse in most situations and any residue is only a small amount of a mild detergent which rinses off easily.
Where do I spray?
Viruses can travel up two 2 metres and, in some cases, up to 15 metres if there is rapid air movement. Spray all surfaces but give attention to touch points such as light switches, desktops, computer keys (avoid getting too wet), door handles etc. Biofilms can build up on these surfaces so give them a good firm wipe.
What is a biofilm?
It is a little bit like plaque that forms on unbrushed teeth. A combination of environmental soiling and the excretions of bacteria that form a hard-protective film at a microscopic level. The biofilm is the ideal place for bacteria to grow and unless the biofilm is removed the bacteria (and viruses) can survive to contaminate at a time in the future.
Can I use an alcohol base spray?
Alcohol based sprays must have at least 60% and ideally more than 70% ethanol or isopropanol. While effective they can be expensive for large areas and can create a fire risk if atomised extensively indoors. Also, alcohol sprays can’t be diluted.
Is it better than chlorine (Sodium Hypochlorite solution) bleach?
Bleach is effective against the coronavirus, but it has two downsides. First it has a strong odour and when spraying in a confined area, the smell can be overpowering. You need enough product to do the job properly. If people are using bleach and the smell is annoying, they use less and that means they can miss areas. Second, bleach can permanently stain textiles and some wooden surfaces. In a concentrate form bleach can cause permanent damage quickly if it is spilled.
What do we do in a situation where there has been a person who has the contamination?
Usually we recommend a 1:15 dilution ratio but if there has been a known contamination we recommend using a 1:9 concentration. Even if you think there may have been a person with the virus the cost of using the extra strength is minimal to give you peace of mind. Successful sanitising is a result of the right concentration, the right contact time and putting the sanitiser in the right place.