materials Review Can Copper Products and Surfaces Reduce the Spread of Infectious Microorganisms and Hospital-Acquired Infections? Joji Abraham 1,*, Kim Dowling 1,2 and Singarayer Florentine 3 1 School of Engineering, Information Technology and Physical Sciences, Mt Helen Campus, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia;
[email protected] 2 Department of Geology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa 3 Future Regions Research Centre, School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Mt Helen Campus, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; S.fl
[email protected] * Correspondence:
[email protected]; Tel.: +61-412-751-134 Abstract: Pathogen transfer and infection in the built environment are globally significant events, leading to the spread of disease and an increase in subsequent morbidity and mortality rates. There are numerous strategies followed in healthcare facilities to minimize pathogen transfer, but complete infection control has not, as yet, been achieved. However, based on traditional use in many cultures, the introduction of copper products and surfaces to significantly and positively retard pathogen transmission invites further investigation. For example, many microbes are rendered unviable upon contact exposure to copper or copper alloys, either immediately or within a short time. In addition, many disease-causing bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7, hospital superbugs, and several viruses (including SARS-CoV-2) are also susceptible to exposure to copper surfaces. It is thus suggested that replacing common touch surfaces in healthcare facilities, food industries, and public places (including public transport) with copper or alloys of copper may substantially contribute to limiting Citation: Abraham, J.; Dowling, K.; transmission.