Researchers at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom found copper may be used to effectively help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, according to HealthNewsDigest.com.
Here are five highlights:
1. Many of these respiratory viruses are linked to severe respiratory syndrome and Middle East respiratory syndrome.
2. Researchers found copper quickly destroys the human coronavirus, 229E, which remains infectious on many surface materials for several days.
3. Based on these findings, researchers concluded communal areas and mass gatherings should consider using antimicrobial copper surfaces to reduce the spread of the viruses.
4. Past research has proved copper's efficacy against norovirus, influenza and hospital superbugs.
5. Lead researcher Sarah Warnes, MD, said, "Transmission of infectious diseases via contaminated surfaces is far more important than was originally thought, and this includes viruses that cause respiratory infections. This is especially important when the infectious dose is low and just a few virus particles can initiate an infection."
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