Effect of phenolic and chlorine disinfectants on hepatitis C virus binding and infectivity

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory activity of 2 polyphenolic disinfectants and a chlorine compound (NaDCC) on hepatitis C virus (HCV) binding and infectivity. Methods: VERO cells (a continuous cell line derived from cynomolgus kidney cells) suitable for analyzing HCV binding and replication, and the competitive reverse transcription (cRT-PCR) technique for HCV RNA molecules quantitative evaluation have been chosen as a methodologic approach for the antiviral activity testing. Results: At their recommended use dilutions, polyphenolic disinfectants inhibited HCV binding and replication. The chlorine compound was ineffective, probably a result of its low concentration in the presence of protein substances in VERO cell cultures. Conclusions: Inhibition of HCV binding and replication by the tested polyphenolic associations confirm their value in instrument decontamination and environmental disinfection against this clinically important lipid virus. (AJIC Am J Infect Control 1999;27:236-9)