Grant: Catalyst Grant: Avian Influenza OneHealth Research

The proposed research aims to innovate surface disinfection methods to safeguard against avian influenza through the use of hydroxylation, an advanced oxidation process that generates reactive hydroxyl radicals. The project is structured into three primary objectives. Objective 1 involves experimental studies to evaluate the efficacy of hydroxylation in inactivating the avian influenza virus under varying environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, dust, concentration, exposure time, and across different surface materials. Objective 2 focuses on applying these optimized conditions at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) to validate the practical applicability and safety of hydroxylation in a real-world, high-containment setting. Objective 3 leverages knowledge translation and mobilization to inform and engage stakeholders, including producers, rural populations, and policymakers, about effective administrative and personal protective measures to mitigate the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. By integrating interdisciplinary expertise from chemical engineering, virology, and environmental science, this research aligns with the One Health concept and addresses a critical need for non-pharmaceutical interventions to control H5N1 transmission. The project is expected to provide valuable insights into the potential of hydroxylation for biosecurity, contributing to enhanced infection prevention and control strategies.