Reduction of SARS-CoV-2 Infectious Titers by Direct Contact with Cuprous-Oxide Impregnated Face Masks External Layers

SARS-CoV-2 can remain viable on the protective face masks surface for several days. Mask touching, reuse and disposal occurs frequently, leading to increased risk of cross-contamination, infection further transmission. Cuprous-oxide has potent virucidal properties. We determined capacity surgical (type IIR) made with nonwoven fabric impregnated cuprous-oxide microparticles (Test Fabric), inactivate when in direct contact virus. The Test Fabric reduced infectious titers by 0.73, 3.02 4.19 log10 within 5, 30 60 minutes, respectively. In contrast, virus were Control 0.24, 0.67 0.97 reductions significantly higher than (0.49, 2.35 3.22 log difference, accordingly), reaching a statistically significant difference after 5 minutes (p<0.01). mask filtration properties not affected presence cuprous oxide microparticles. conclude that use containing external layers respiratory may reduce transmission infection, due handling disposal, especially used general population.