Should test methods for disinfectants use vertebrate viruses dried on carriers to advance virucidal claims?

Test methods currently used to evaluate the virucidal activity employ challenge virus that is either dried on prototypical hard surfaces or is in suspension. The latter presents a weaker challenge to the test formulation. Regulatory agencies such as the US EPA, Canadian General Standard Board, and Australian TGA require data based on carrier tests using vertebrate viruses. In contrast, European Norms (both BS EN 14476:2005 and EN 13610) require suspension tests, although EN 13610 specifies bacteriophages, as opposed to vertebrate viruses. The authors argue that that requirements of ENs are unrealistic and do not represent field situations where disinfectants are used for decontamination of pathogens dried on hard surfaces. They also argue that use of only the naked or nonenveloped bacteriophages or viruses in suspension, as required by EN 13610:1999 or BS EN 14476: 2005, is irrelevant to field situations and will force disinfectant manufacturers to overformulate or use more potentially toxic ingredients because of the challenging virucidal hierarchy of nonenveloped vertebrate viruses or bacteriophages. J. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2008;29:192-4.