Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by iodine

ABSTRACT

Iodine-based disinfectants have recently been reported to inactivate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Iodine exists in various forms and, the relative inactivation abilities of different iodine compounds remain unclear. In this study, we examined the inactivating effects of different forms of iodine used in iodine-based disinfectants (free iodine, iodide ions, and polyiodide ions such as triiodide ion and povidone-iodine). Although iodide ions were unable to inactivate SARS-CoV-2, free iodine, iodine complex, and polyiodide significantly inactivated the virus. Iodine complex and polyiodide were the main components responsible for disinfection activity.