Vitiprints to curb Covid-19 spread in Africa with Viracide masks

Customisable print technology platform Vitiprints has launched a new initiative to tackle the spread of Covid-19 and its variants in Africa through a partnership with Uvukile Medical and Surgical Supplies.

The agreement will see Uvukile distribute Vitiprints-developed Viracide masks across the continent, with the roll out of the African leg of the Viracide Deactivation Nation campaign set to begin in South Africa and a number of neighbouring nations.
 
Approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, the medical-grade Viracide masks feature an anti-viral and anti-bacterial coating that provides an additional tool in the battle against Covid-19.
 
This coating has been proven to deactivate 99.97% of SARS-CoV-2 and 99% of the Human Coronavirus under one minute of contact with the surface of the facemask, significantly reducing the chances of contracting or passing on the virus.
 
The proprietary Viracide anti-microbial and anti-viral cinnamon-scented coating deactivates specific viruses and bacteria, with testing have also found that the technology was able to fully deactivate 99% of a tested influenza strain [Influenza A Virus (H3N2)] within 30 minute of contact with the surface of the mask
 
A three-ply construction with pleats, ear loops and multiple filtration layers on the Viracide mask also protects against the transfer of microorganisms, body fluids and particulates, while the mask is suitable for both personal and professional use.
 
“Having a true anti-viral mask that can be sold at an affordable price is what South Africa and its neighbours need now,” the Uvukile Medical and Surgical Supplies said in a statement.
 
“We believe the use of Viracide masks will have an immediate impact on the spread of Covid-19 in Africa. We are working with SAHPRA and other government and humanitarian agencies across the continent to control Covid and save lives.”
 
Vitiprints co-founder John Gentile added: “Vitiprints and its partners are honoured that our Viracide masks are being accepted in multiple countries worldwide. ]
 
“We believe that our mask allows every individual to be protected with a true antiviral coating that deactivates Covid-19 and its variants in under one minute for a cost of pennies per day based on weekly use. We are proud to offer the world a new tool in the global fight against Covid-19, one whose cost-effectiveness makes it valuable in every corner of the world.
 
“South Africa has led the way to be one of the first countries to join the Viracide Deactivation Nation global campaign, as we focus on our mission to deactivate Covid-19 and other pathogens for a safer and healthier planet for all.”