Avian Flu Tests

Emergency Filtration Products, Inc., reported that it had received results from an established, BSL-3 (Bio - Safety Level 3) independent testing laboratory that a custom-engineered nanomaterial formulation, licensed to EFP, completely inactivated the H9N2 strain of avian influenza within one minute. The Virucidal Efficacy Test involved a titer of virus with a concentration greater than 6 logs.

"The virus tested was of a higher concentration than typically used in this type of challenge," said Douglas K. Beplate, president and CEO, EFP. "An expanded and ongoing testing program of this formulation, and possibly of additional custom-engineered nanomaterials, will be conducted against H9N2 and other pathogens in the coming months."

Why we tested against H9N2 and not H5N1?

• There are only two laboratories in the US that have the available H5N1 strain and both are used by the government and the military for their research.
• H9N2 is another strain of avian flu which is the substitute strain of H5N1; both cells are similar form and appearance.

The laboratory who tested against the Avian Flu virus is a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3). It is an independent laboratory regulated by the US government. Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) is applicable to clinical, diagnostic, teaching, research, or production facilities in which work is done with indigenous or exotic agents which may cause serious or potentially lethal disease as a result of exposure by the inhalation route. Laboratory personnel have specific training in handling pathogenic and potentially lethal agents, and are supervised by competent scientists who are experienced in working with these agents. Access to the laboratory is restricted by a combination of methods.

All procedures involving the manipulation of infectious materials are conducted within biological safety cabinets or other physical containment devices, and by personnel wearing appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment. The laboratory has special engineering, design and operational features that rigorously assure that all infectious agents stored or in use remain in the laboratory. All waste generated in the laboratory is sterilized before release. The workers' special laboratory clothing remains in the laboratory until it has been properly cleaned or sterilized.

Test Results (pdf)

Nano Masks - NanoMask Testing - H5N1 - NanoMask and Bird Flu in Turkey