Effectiveness of N95 Respirator Decontamination and Reuse against SARS-CoV-2 Virus

2020266 citationsletterdiamond Open Access

Authors

Robert J. Fischer

Dylan H. Morris

Neeltje van Doremalen

Amandine Gamble · University of California, Los Angeles

Brandi N. Williamson

Seth D. Judson

Emmie de Wit

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic has created worldwide shortages of N95 respirators. We analyzed 4 decontamination methods for effectiveness in deactivating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus and effect on respirator function. Our results indicate that N95 respirators can be decontaminated and reused, but the integrity of respirator fit and seal must be maintained.

Topics & Keywords

Infection Control and Ventilation Infection Control in Healthcare Healthcare and Environmental Waste Management

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Good health and well-being

Publication Details

Published in: Emerging infectious diseases

Volume 26, Issue 9, pp. 2253-2255

DOI: 10.3201/eid2609.201524

Field-Weighted Citation Impact: 30.89