Harnessing Peroxymonosulfate Disinfectants to Combat NDV Genotype VII in MENA Poultry Farms: The Promise of Virokill 50

Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), particularly the velogenic Genotype VII strains, remains a persistent threat to poultry production across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). These highly pathogenic variants can cause up to 100% mortality in unvaccinated flocks and significant drops in egg production even in vaccinated birds. Traditional biosecurity and vaccination strategies alone often prove insufficient during acute outbreaks, underscoring the need for robust on-farm disinfection protocols.

Why Peroxymonosulfate?

Peroxymonosulfate (often marketed under trade names like Oxone® or as the active core of Virkon® S) is a powerful oxidative biocide. Its redox potential (~1.8 V) drives rapid oxidation of viral proteins and lipids, disrupting envelope integrity and irreversibly inactivating pathogens. Unlike chlorine dioxide, peroxymonosulfate does not produce hazardous gaseous byproducts during preparation or use, and its powder formulation lends itself to long-term storage without loss of activity.

Virokill 50: Composition & Key Features

Virokill 50 is Mobedco’s peroxymonosulfate-based disinfectant engineered for livestock and poultry environments. Its stabilized powder blend includes:

• 50% potassium peroxymonosulfate
• Surfactants and organic acids for enhanced wetting
• Inorganic buffers ensuring pH stability
• Proprietary corrosion-inhibiting agents

This formulation delivers:

• Broad-spectrum virucidal, bactericidal, and fungicidal efficacy
• Compatibility with stainless steel, plastics, rubber, concrete, and porous surfaces
• Low toxicity to operators (no chlorine evolution at in-use dilutions)
• Ease of transport and storage (non-regulated powder form)

Proven Broad-Spectrum Efficacy

Independent testing and field validations report Virokill 50’s performance as follows:

• Rapid inactivation of enveloped viruses, including NDV
• Activity against 64 distinct viral strains, 34 bacterial species, and 5 fungal organisms
• Effective in hard water and high organic load conditions
• Boot dip disinfection achieved in under 30 seconds, even at low temperatures

These attributes mirror the benchmarks set by established peroxymonosulfate products like Virkon S, which USDA studies confirmed as 100% effective against exotic NDV in real-world poultry settings.

Application Protocols for Poultry Farms

Optimizing on-farm disinfection routines is critical when facing Genotype VII NDV. Recommended Virokill 50 use includes:

1. Pre-cleaning
   • Remove organic debris; allow surfaces and equipment to dry.
2. Surface & Equipment Disinfection
   • Dilution: 1 g Virokill 50 per 100 mL water (1:100) for routine; 1:50 for high-risk zones
   • Application: Spray or pressure wash at 300 mL/m²; ensure 10 minute contact time
3. Boot Dips
   • Dilution: 1:100 (10 g per L)
   • Replace solution every 5 days or when soiled; 30 second contact
4. Waterline Disinfection
   • Terminal (between flocks): 1:100; circulate for 10 minutes; flush thoroughly
   • Continuous: 1:1 000 dosing via automated system
5. Aerial Mist & Fogging

• Mist: 1:200 dilution; 20 mL/m³ airspace
• Cold fog: 1:100 dilution; 40 mL/m³ airspace
• Safe for use with birds in situ at 1:200 dilution to lower airborne viral loads

Adhering to these steps helps break transmission chains and protects against Genotype VII introduction or persistence.

Integrating Virokill 50 into MENA Biosecurity Frameworks

To maximize outbreak control and resilience:

• Zone-based Disinfection: Align Virokill 50 protocols with WOAH/APHIS zoning (infected, buffer, surveillance areas).
• Rotation Strategy: Although peroxymonosulfate resists resistance development, alternate with other chemistries seasonally for comprehensive coverage.
• On-farm Validation: Employ biological indicators or test strips post-application to confirm residual activity.
• Training & Documentation: Develop SOPs incorporating dilution tables, contact times, and safety checklists in local languages.

By embedding Virokill 50 into holistic biosecurity and vaccination programs, poultry operations in the MENA region can significantly reduce the impact of highly pathogenic NDV Genotype VII.

Conclusion

Virokill 50’s powerful peroxymonosulfate chemistry delivers rapid, reliable inactivation of Newcastle Disease Virus under challenging farm conditions. Its ease of use, broad spectrum, and proven field performance make it an essential tool for MENA poultry producers battling Genotype VII outbreaks. When paired with sound vaccination, monitoring, and biosecurity practices, Virokill 50 helps safeguard flock health, production continuity, and regional poultry trade.

Would you like a customized SOP or field checklist to integrate Virokill 50 into your NDV response plan? Let’s draft it together.

References

1. Virokill 50 Product Summary, Mobedco
2. USDA Centers for Epidemiology and Animal Health. Field Efficacy of Virkon S Against Exotic NDV.
3. Gradel, K. O., et al. “Associations Between Salmonella Persistence and Disinfectant Resistance.” Veterinary Microbiology, 2005.
4. Randall, L. P., et al. “Farm Disinfectants Select for Decreased Susceptibility in Salmonella.” Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 2007.

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