Viricidals are disinfectants specifically used to kill what?

• A. Viruses.
• B. Bacteria.
• C. Fungi.
• D. Spores.

Answer: (A)

Viricidal disinfectants are formulated to inactivate or destroy viruses on surfaces. Viruses, unlike bacteria, fungi, or spores, require a host to replicate, so products labeled virucidal are tested to disrupt viral structures or nucleic acids so the virus can no longer infect. That focus on eliminating viruses is what makes viricidal the best answer. Bactericidal, fungicidal, and sporicidal products target bacteria, fungi, and spores, respectively, and may not reliably kill viruses unless the product carries those specific claims as well.