Copper could help prevent Ebola spread

Replacing frequently-touched surfaces, such as door handles, taps and light switches, with solid copper or copper alloy equivalents could be an effective strategy to prevent the spread of the deadly Ebola virus, says a study.

The research from the University of Southampton in Britain found that anti-microbial copper - engineering materials with intrinsic hygiene benefits - could be a valuable addition to the existing measures adopted to contain the spread of the virus.

"Based on our research on viruses of similar genetic structure, we expect copper surfaces to inactivate Ebola, and to help control the spread of this virus if employed for publicly-used touch surfaces," said Bill Keevil, professor at the University of Southampton.

Peer-reviewed and published data from laboratory studies conducted by Keevil demonstrates copper's ability to rapidly and completely inactivate norovirus.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note the Ebola virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, or through exposure to contaminated objects.

Anti-microbial copper surfaces have been described as a 'no touch' solution, meaning that no special measures or human intervention are required for it to continuously kill pathogens, in between regular cleans.

With this in mind, the use of anti-microbial copper surfaces could offer an additional method of controlling the current spread of Ebola.