Virology
Specialised in viral testing for development or submission
Skilled in Viral Assay Development
We offer a comprehensive range of virucidal efficacy testing methods to support a variety of sectors. Our virology team has experience with standard methods such as suspension tests, carrier tests, antiviral textile and non-porous surface tests. Our scientists can also work with customers to adapt methods or create customised methods where needed.
Some of the commonly used viruses from our collection are listed below, please enquire if you are interested in a virus you don’t see here.
Commonly Used Methods
ISO 21702
Measurement of antiviral activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces
ISO 21702 is used to determine the antiviral activity of non-porous products, such as plastics. This method tests for efficacy against Influenza and Feline calicivirus (a surrogate for norovirus) as standard but can be adapted to include other viruses. 5 x 5 cm samples are inoculated with virus and a coverslip is applied to ensure uniform contact with the active. Anything from plastic to leather to porcelain can be tested with this method, as long as the inoculum is not absorbed by the sample.
Required viruses: Influenza A (enveloped) and Feline calicivirus (non-enveloped, norovirus surrogate). Other viruses available on request.
Sample requirements: 5 x 5 cm control and antiviral specimens (sterile)
Contact time: 24 hours, other contact times can be added
End point: TCID50
Efficacy: Not set by standard, to be agreed on by all interested parties
EN 14476
Quantitative suspension test for the evaluation of virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants used in the medical area
EN 14476 evaluates the virucidal activity of chemical disinfection products intended for the medical area, under the conditions in which they are used. There are specified viruses, contact times, test temperatures and interfering substances for hygienic handrubs, hygienic handwashes, instrument disinfection, surface disinfection and textile disinfection. Liquid products are added to a viral suspension and maintained for a specified time before the remaining viable virus is quantified.
Required viruses: Dependent on product type, from adenovirus, murine norovirus, poliovirus and vaccinia virus
Contact time: Dependent on product type
End point: TCID50
Efficacy: ≥ 4 Log reduction
Viral inactivation/Viral Clearance
Assessment of the efficacy of a manufacturing process to remove viruses from products with a biological origin
For any products with a biological origin, it is essential that there is a process for removal of any viruses to prevent health risks. Viral inactivation or viral clearance studies ensure that these processes are fully effective. The steps for removing virus during the manufacturing process are repeated using appropriate model viruses.
Required viruses: Chosen to be relevant for the product and to cover a range of viruses (e.g. enveloped, non-enveloped, RNA, DNA)
Contact time: Representative of processing steps from manufacturing
End point: TCID50
EN 16777
Quantitative non-porous surface test without mechanical action for the evaluation of virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants used in the medical area
EN 16777 is used to measure the virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants intended for disinfecting non-porous surfaces in the medical area without mechanical action, including disinfectants used for the surfaces of medical devices. The standard references adenovirus and murine norovirus, with vaccinia virus as an option for an enveloped virus claim. This standard can be adapted for other viruses on request.
Required viruses: Adenovirus, murine norovirus and vaccinia (enveloped viruses only). Other viruses are available on request
Contact time: according to manufacturer’s instructions, not longer than 5 minutes or 60 minutes, depending on product type.
Test temperature: between 18°C and 25°C
End point: TCID50
Efficacy: ≥ 4 Log reduction
ISO 18184
Determination of antiviral activity of textile products
ISO 18184 is used to determine the antiviral activity of textile products. Suitable for woven and knitted fabrics, fibres, yarns, braids and other fabrics, this method tests for efficacy against Influenza and Feline calicivirus (a surrogate for norovirus) as standard but can be adapted to include other viruses. In 2024 Virologica became the first company in the UK to hold a ISO 17025:2017 accreditation from UKAS for this method, for the two listed viruses.
Required viruses: Influenza A (enveloped) and Feline calicivirus (non-enveloped, Norovirus surrogate). Other viruses available on request.
Sample requirements: 9 control specimens and 6 antiviral specimens (sterile)
Contact time: 2 hours, may be varied but no longer than 24 hours
End point: TCID50
Efficacy: Antiviral efficacy value (Mv) 3.0 > Mv ≥ 2.0 = good effect, Mv ≥ 3.0 = excellent effect
All of our viruses are sourced from a commercial culture collection, propagated in-house and stored cryogenically.
We regularly add to our collection, is there a virus not listed here you would like work with? Contact us.
| Virus Name | Envelope | Genetic material | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adenovirus | No | Double-stranded DNA | 90 – 100 nm | |
| Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus | Yes | Single-stranded RNA | 40 – 60 nm | Often used as a surrogate for hepatitis C virus |
| Feline Calicivirus | No | Single-stranded RNA | 35 – 38 nm | Can be used as a surrogate for norovirus |
| Human Coronavirus 229E | Yes | Single-stranded RNA | 80 – 120 nm | |
| Influenza A H1N1 | Yes | Single-stranded RNA | 80 – 120 nm | |
| Vaccinia | Yes | Double-stranded DNA | 250 – 360 nm | Can be used as a surrogate for mpox |
FAQs
What is virology testing?
Virology testing involves evaluating the effectiveness of disinfectants, textiles, and materials against viruses to ensure product safety, antiviral performance, and regulatory compliance.
Which viruses are used in virology testing labs?
Common viruses used include Human Coronavirus 229E, Murine Norovirus, Influenza A (H1N1), and Adenovirus depending on the required test standards.
What is the purpose of EN 14476 testing?
EN 14476 testing assesses the virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants in medical settings, ensuring they effectively reduce or eliminate viruses under specified test conditions.
What is ISO 18184 testing used for?
ISO 18184 testing measures the antiviral properties of treated textile products like fabrics, fibres, and yarns to ensure they reduce viral presence effectively after a defined contact time.
Which virus is a surrogate for SARS-CoV-2 testing?
Human Coronavirus 229E is widely used as a surrogate virus for SARS-CoV-2 in virology labs because it shares genetic and morphological similarities and uses similar infection mechanisms.
Do you offer customised virology testing services?
Yes, we offer both standardised and customised virology testing services to meet unique product testing needs, covering various viruses, testing methods, and regulatory requirements.
What types of products can be tested for antiviral activity?
We test a wide range of products including textiles, plastics, disinfectants, personal protective equipment (PPE), and surface coatings for antiviral and virucidal effectiveness.
Start The Conversation
Contact us today to explore how we can support you with your next project.