Question

List at least 5 (five) factors that can influence the stability of virions in the environment and describe how the factor influences the virion stability in the environment.

Answer 1

Answer :

1) TEMPERATURE

Inactivation is directly proportional to the temperature.

High temperature in autoclave or boiling is based on this.

There are exceptions, which could afford extreme temperatures.

2) PH

More unstabe at extreme pH.

Neutral pH is preffered by most. But there are exceptions in both extremes.

3) SALINITY

Increased salinity is virucidal.

This is the principle behind pickles and salted fish.

4) MOISTURE/HUMIDITY

Stability is directly proportional to humidity. There are exceptions. Moisture favours propagation too. Extreme drying cause inactivation.

5) PRESSURE

High pressure is indirectly proportional to stability.

High pressure autoclaving and pressure cooker cooking uses this principle.