NanoSeptic Self-Cleaning Surfaces Show Promise in Battling MERS

Safe Life FZC, healthcare distributors based in United Arab Emirates (UAE), is employing the latest technology to combat Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). They are attempting to break the cycle of transmission by adopting self-cleaning NanoSeptic® surfaces for use throughout hospitals, hotels, shopping centers and schools.

The NanoSeptic® self-cleaning products include facility touch points such as door push pads and handle wraps, portable mats for counters, tray tables and bathroom vanities, and custom products like grocery cart and public transportation grab-handle wraps.

"When you are talking about a virus that has a 50 percent mortality rate and is spreading internationally, we need to attack the problem on multiple fronts," says Dr. Ahmed Elawadi, president of Safe Life. "Not only do NanoSeptic surfaces help to inhibit the chance of Coronavirus transmission through surface contact and cross contamination, but it works on all other bacteria, viruses and fungi."

Independent lab tests were just conducted with the human coronavirus that show that the NanoSeptic surface kills 99.96 percent of viruses deposited on a surface in 30 minutes. The same tests showed that after 30 minutes, 56 percent of the virus was still alive on a stainless steel surface, a common material for door push plates and handles, and almost 20 percent was still alive after four hours.  The NanoSeptic surface is "always on", constantly trapping and killing microbes 24/7.

"We are always on the lookout for innovative solutions for our healthcare and hospitality clients," says Walter Bone, an architect based in Dubai. "NanoSeptic self-cleaning surfaces could help our clients stay ahead of the curve with the cleanliness of their properties and the health of their guests. The timing is perfect with the large number of five- and six-star hotels as well as international travelers coming to the region for the upcoming Hajj Pilgrimage."

And this peace of mind extends to the environment since NanoSeptic surfaces use no toxins, heavy metals or diluted poisons, and do not contribute to antimicrobial resistance.  "NanoTouch is out to make the world a cleaner and healthier place to live, work, and play. This is particularly important when dangerous outbreaks occur in the very facilities where we go to get better," says NanoTouch Materials co-founder, Dennis Hackemeyer.