Copper Development Association. A Copper Alliance Member

Copper, Pathogens and Disease

An educational article from the Copper Development Association

This resource looks at the antimicrobial properties of copper and how these are being harnessed to help prevent the transmission of the pathogens that cause healthcare-associated infections in hospitals.

What is an Antimicrobial?

An antimicrobial is an agent that kills microorganisms – bacteria, viruses and fungi (including moulds) – or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobials include antibiotics such as penicillin and disinfectants such as bleach (sodium hypochlorite). This resource describes the properties and applications of copper in solid form, as a surface material.