A SPECIALIST in infection control has launched a spray-on coating that can protect surfaces from bacteria and viruses including Covid-19.

Poole-based DDC Dolphin says its Hygenex Recoat system is also effective against SARS, other coronaviruses, MRSA, E.Coli, salmonella, legionella, flu, fungi and yeast.

It protects surfaces for up to six months between applications and DDC Dolphin says it helps safeguard care homes, hospitals, schools and other pu blic places.

The company says infections which are allowed to stay on surfaces spread with alarming speed, with one study showing viral DNA on a hospital bed rail was spread to 18 other surfaces in 10 hours. Those surfaces included door handles, chairs in a waiting room, children’s toys and books in a play area.

Droplet-borne viruses such as Covid-19 and SARS can remain infectious on plastic or stainless steel for up to three days, while E.Coli and MRSA can survive there for three months, the business says.

DDC Dolphin marketing director Zoe Allen said: “A single cough can produce thousands of infectious droplets so regular cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces is critical.

“However, there is always the fear that an area may not cleaned thoroughly enough – or missed altogether.

“But Hygenex Recoat provides vital extra protection and reassurance because it continues to kill infections for up to six months between applications.”

Hygenex Recoat uses silver ions as an active ingredient to help kill infectious viruses and bacteria. Silver has been used to control infections for thousands of years but its popularity waned with the advent of antibiotics.

DDC Dolphin makes and exports sluice room equipment to protect care homes and hospitals from infections including superbugs.

It manufactures and supplies medical pulp macerators, incontinence product macerators, bedpan washer disinfectors, UV air purifiers, tainless steel furniture and sluice room consumables.