# UV-C Irradiation Effectiveness on Mpox-Virus-Contaminated Surfaces

## TL;DR

This study shows that low-dose UV-C light can effectively kill the Mpox virus on common surfaces, offering a practical disinfection method to prevent its spread.

## Contribution

The study provides novel data on the specific UV-C doses required to inactivate Mpox virus on different surfaces.

## Key findings

- A UV-C dose of 6.34 mJ/cm2 reduced MpoxV to undetectable levels on plastic and stainless steel.
- EC90 values varied by surface, with stainless steel requiring the lowest dose (0.81 mJ/cm2).
- UV-C irradiation is a rapid and effective disinfection strategy for MpoxV-contaminated surfaces.

## Abstract

Introduction: Mpox virus (MpoxV), an emerging zoonotic pathogen, has recently caused global concern due to increasing outbreaks beyond its traditional endemic regions. While transmission primarily occurs via close contact, fomites are also suspected of contributing. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of UV-C irradiation on MpoxV-contaminated surfaces. Methods: the virucidal activity of UV-C (254 nm) irradiation on MpoxV applied to plastic, glass, and stainless-steel surfaces was assessed. Using a viral stock of 2.49 × 105 TCID50/mL, the samples were exposed to increasing UV-C doses. Viral titers were quantified through TCID50 and plaque assays. Results: A UV-C dose of 6.34 mJ/cm2 achieved a >2-log reduction of viral load, below the detection limit (31.6 TCID50/mL), on all tested surfaces. EC90 values were determined as 3.33 mJ/cm2 (plastic), 0.81 mJ/cm2 (stainless steel), and 1.98 mJ/cm2 (glass). No viable virus was detectable post-treatment at these doses on plastic and stainless steel while the titer was significantly reduced on glass. Conclusions: UV-C irradiation at low doses effectively inactivated MpoxV on various fomites. These findings support UV-C as a rapid and effective environmental disinfection strategy in healthcare and community settings to prevent indirect transmission of MpoxV.