Activity / Efficacy

In disinfection, these terms describe the impairing effect a certain agent (active ingredient) has on populations of microorganisms. Activity/efficacy may refer to inhibition of growth, complete killing or inactivation.

Activity
Activity describes the antimicrobial spectrum (e.g. bactericidal and yeasticidal activity). Generally, it is determined in suspension tests. Possible terms for activity: bactericidal, yeasticidal, fungicidal, mycobactericidal, tuberculocidal, virucidal against enveloped viruses, virucidal, sporicidal.

Efficacy
The efficacy is tested for a certain type of application (e.g. surgical hand disinfection). It is determined in practical studies.

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Knowledge Database

The A-to-Z database provides information on each pathogen, the most common infections that it triggers, its main transmission paths and recommendations on disinfection. In the glossary, you will find explanations of infection control terms. Search now!

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