Journal of Applied Pharmacy
Open Access

Abstract

Chemical Considerations Related to the Dilution of Commercial 10% PovidoneIodine for Use in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Pelletier J. S.*, Amoakohene S. K and Nuckolls C

Much of the world is mired in a pandemic caused by the spread of COVID-19. Healthcare facilities and research laboratories are intensely interested in developing processes and protocols to safely reopen in situations where adequate social distancing may not be possible. In a large, experimental chemistry and materials science research laboratory, graduate students, post-docs, undergrads, staff scientists and administrative personnel work very closely together. Social distancing is a challenge when much of the work involves complex machinery, specialized analytical devices, limited space and collaborative bench work that is hard to physically separate. A similar dynamic exists in medical offices, hospitals and Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). As we have searched for strategies in addition to social distancing that would enable a safe and gradual re-opening, it is clear that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has a primary role. Chemists in particular are very familiar with PPE as they are required to wear lab coats, safety glasses and gloves in synthetic labs. Other types of PPE are routinely used when dealing with potentially noxious reaction processes. Physicians, due to close, sustained contact with patients are now routinely donning PPE in situations where it was never previously required. But what is to be done when every person and every process could potentially expose our ourselves and our staff to transmission risk of COVID -19? As we have recently learned, asymptomatic individuals could be actively infected with high viral loads in the nose and mouth with the potential to transmit infectious virus particles through aerosols, droplets and other dispersive elements.

Published Date: 2024-06-28; Received Date: 2020-07-17