On the Efficacy of ZnO Nanostructures against SARS-CoV-2

Since 2019, the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19), related to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) started spreading around the word, giving rise to the world pandemic we are still facing. Since then, many strategies for the prevention and control of COVID-19 have been studied and implemented. Besides pharmacological treatments and vaccines, it is mandatory to ensure the cleaning and disinfection of skin and inanimate surfaces, especially in all those contexts where contagion could run fast: hospitals and clinical laboratories, schools, transport and public places in general. Here we report on the efficacy of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs) against SARS-CoV-2. NPs were produced with an ecofriendly method and fully characterized; their antiviral activity was tested in vitro against SARS-CoV-2, showing a decreasing of viral loading comprised between 70 and 90%, as a function of the material’s composition. Application of these nanoantimicrobials as coatings for common-touch surfaces is envisaged.