Headlines are filled with news from Wuhan, China following the outbreak of a highly contagious strain of the coronavirus. As of the 23rd of January, 639 cases have been confirmed in 8 countries and 17 people have now died, but what is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses, members of which are enveloped and have a positive sense RNA genome. Examples of members of this viral family include Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARs-CoV) and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) both of which have caused outbreaks previously.

The CDC makes recommendations for how to prevent the flu, including effective washing of hands and the cleaning and disinfection of regularly touched surfaces, MSL is offering companies the ability to confirm their products are effective against these types of viruses to help prevent the spread of this infection and future similar outbreaks.

To test against the specific Coronavirus strain is neither safe or feasible in situations like this but a suitable surrogate organism gives both the product manufacturer and the consumer peace of mind. Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is an enveloped, positive sense RNA virus, which belongs to the coronavirus family, suitable as a representative viral strain to assess antiviral efficacy against coronaviruses and now MSL is offering modified EN standard testing to confirm product effectiveness against this organism.

Our screen test offering confirms the in-use concentration of a product is suitable for use against this virus family giving you the key information to reassure your customers quickly and affordably. Screen testing confirms your products effectiveness and is available from £275.

If this current outbreak is a concern in your product’s market, confirm your product is effective and can help combat the spread of this illness.

Speak to our projects team to learn more at peter.thistlethwaite@msl.io or by phone 01706 282960