Chlorine Dioxide Gas: Development, Optimization, and Application, of an Antiviral Assay Based on the MS2 Bacteriophage

Abstract

Since emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the need to identify antiviral agents for disinfection purposes has dramatically increased. Chlorine dioxide gas has previously been identified as an antibacterial agent with strong oxidizing capabilities. The MS2 bacteriophage has previously been identified as a suitable surrogate for the development and application of virucide decontamination methods. The purpose of this study was to identify and assess the antiviral properties of chlorine dioxide gas and to identify optimum physical conditions for potential deployment in support of current antiviral disinfection needs. Using the MS2 bacteriophage model system, preliminary studies used the double-layer agar plaque assay technique to evaluate the antiviral activity of chlorine dioxide gas. Results support the potential use of chlorine dioxide gas as an antiviral agent and that environmental factors heavily influences the ability of chlorine dioxide gas to act as an antiviral agent.